DPC stands for Direct Primary Care, a simplified practice and payment model that enables health care providers to directly care for and bill patients without the limitations of insurance companies and corporate healthcare systems.
SectionHow big is a DPC practice?
DPC practice allows for a small patient panel, generally limited to 300-400 patients (compared to 2000-3000 in a traditional practice) allowing for patient focused interactions. In this small setting, providers are able to spend less time worried about productivity and more time on quality patient care. Most of our well visits are scheduled for an average of one hour to ensure all of your visit needs are met.
Who runs the practice?
The DPC medical model is intended for small business. Our practice is currently owned and operated by our APRN provider, Carissa Tartaglia. Carissa works under supervising physician, Dr. Douglas Hughes, a concierge family medicine doctor who has provided concierge services in SWFL for more than 20 years.
Do you accept insurance?
No. Direct primary care practices provide medical care that is not modified or dictated by insurance companies or government entities. Instead, we charge an affordable monthly membership fee in exchange for unlimited access and services.
How does the membership work?
Membership fees vary by patient age. Members are billed monthly according to the fee schedule. A one-time $50 (fifty dollar) per patient registration fee applies to new enrollments.
Are there any additional fees?
Additional affordable fees apply to in-office lab testing, medication administration, and house calls.
What if I need to see a specialist?
Referrals are included in our membership services. Insured patients may use their plans, when applicable, for specialist services. We strive to maintain consistent communication and records to ensure quality coordination of care.
Do you offer Telehealth?
We strive to provide care at a time and place that is most convenient for you. We offer virtual visits through our online portal for established patients.
Do you require or mandate vaccines?
With respect to patient autonomy, we do not require or mandate vaccines. We believe everyone deserves quality health care, regardless of vaccination status.
Do you offer services to non-members?
In an effort to maintain a comprehensive medical relationship with our patients, we do not offer routine services to non-members. We extend a limited number of well and sick visits to family members of established patients.
What if I have an urgent or emergent medical problem?
If you experience a medical emergency, please call 911. Our practice is equipped to handle most non-emergent injuries and conditions (sprains, minor lacerations, abscesses, foreign body removal, etc). Carissa has a working relationship with both local pediatric emergency departments. In the event of an emergency room visit, she is available to communicate with her patients and ER providers throughout the process.
