Why is my physician offering a concierge program?
Many physicians find it very difficult to operate a patient-centered primary care practice in today’s healthcare environment. Your doctor believes the best way to reach optimal health is a partnership between patients and physicians — one where the physician knows the patient personally, is there when needed, and helps to coordinate care.
A concierge program allows your physician to give those patients who want a more personal relationship — and want an emphasis on prevention and wellness — that option.
What is a hybrid concierge program?
Hybrid concierge programs were pioneered by Concierge Choice Physicians (CCP). Hybrid practices give you the choice of staying with your physician in a traditional setting or joining your physician’s concierge program. We believe the CCP program also addresses the key issues that are most important to patients:
- Direct care from their private physician.
- Convenient, unhurried appointments that start on time.
- Assistance with the complexities of specialist referrals and diagnostics.
- Focus on prevention, managing existing conditions and staying as healthy as possible.
How does it work?
Your physician will allocate a few hours each day exclusively to concierge patients. Program membership will be limited initially to fewer than 200 patients. During concierge hours, your physician will see one or two patients per hour and will deliver an annual preventive screening, physical examination and follow-up care.
Can I get same day appointments?
Yes, unless there is an emergency, concierge patients will get same-day or next-day appointments and because of our preferred scheduling, appointments will begin on time — unless there is an unexpected patient emergency. Follow-up visits can be scheduled during concierge hours or traditional hours for members. The advantage for members is more personal time with your physician for your medical care; more time for advice, advocacy and emotional support; and more time to help you manage all of your healthcare needs.
What does the Comprehensive Screening Physical include?
Every patient in the CCP program will receive an annual comprehensive physical examination that will help your physician create a wellness plan based on your individual needs. It will include elements that are beyond what regular physicals include. What makes the screening physical different is your physician has the time to expand the testing and review to include all the issues impacting your health. In addition to your broad-base physical examination, as part of your physicians’ commitment to the highest level of personalized care, you will also receive:
- Annual health assessment
- Electronic and print health newsletters
- Same day or next day appointments
- Convenient dedicated concierge office hours
- Appointments that generally begin on time
- Scheduled appointments for one to two patients per hour during concierge hours
- Extended, unhurried office visits
- Physician availability 24/7 by personal cell phone
- Dedicated office phone number
- Insurance claim facilitation
- CCP Medical Profile Device - an electronic device for carrying your medical information
- Physician-to-physician coordination of specialty referrals
- Medical information and health counseling for foreign travel
- A team approach to wellness and prevention
What if I am a Medicare Patient?
Medicare does not cover the services associated with the concierge program. Medicare patients are however entitled to receive some limited preventive services under the Medicare program. We recommend that you check with your physician for further information.
Can I call the physician when needed?
Concierge patients will receive the physician’s private cell phone number for calling outside of office hours. During the day patients will have a private telephone number for members only. Your physician will take calls between appointments to ensure that your personal needs are met on a timely basis. If you need to reach the physician at night or on the weekend for a medical emergency, you are encouraged to use the direct line.
Do concierge physicians make house calls?
Some physicians do make house calls, however this service is not part of the CCP program. Check with your physician to see if this service is offered.
What if I need help making appointments with other
physicians or scheduling tests?
One of the key services your concierge physician provides is assistance with coordinating care. His or her job is to be your healthcare advocate and champion. Your concierge physician will help you coordinate your specialty care and diagnostic needs. He or she will also follow up to get the results quickly and review them with you. When needed your concierge physician will also help you with specialist appointments.
What if I travel or am away on business and get sick/need care?
When you travel, your concierge physician will help you with whatever planning you need, including arranging for you to receive the proper prescriptions. If needed, we will even contact other physicians associated with CCP to arrange care. Check with your CCP physician for more information.
How much does it cost?
There is an annual fee for this service that is generally not covered by your insurances. It can be paid by check, credit card or automatic debit. There are easy payment plans available, as well. For more details, please contact the CCP representatives by calling toll free1-877-888-5565 or call your physician's office.
Does this impact my current insurance?
No, you continue to maintain your current insurance as before. All non-covered services will still be billed through your current insurance program.
What if there is a problem with my insurance?
If there are questions with insurance, contact your concierge representative or call us at 1-877-888-5565.
Can my family join?
We encourage families to join. Adult membership is per person. However, when their parents have joined,children under age 26 can participate in their parents’ physician program at no additional cost. Please check with your CCP physician to find out at what age he or she begins to see patients.
What if I want to cancel or move?
We understand that circumstances or personal preference may lead some individuals to cancel. Most cancellation policies can take place within 30 days. Please see your membership agreement for more details on the refund policy.
How do I sign up?
Call us at our direct line: 1-877-888-5565.