Top 5 Questions Patients Ask Before Joining a Concierge Medicine Practice

In an industry known for its cautious approach to change, the reputational shift of concierge medicine over the last two decades is remarkable. Fueled by a post-pandemic appreciation of preventive medicine, reasonable membership fees, and most importantly, a broken healthcare system that shows little hope of regeneration, the concierge model has evolved into mainstream acceptance.

Nowhere is that voiced more clearly than by increasing numbers of patients nationwide joining concierge practices, inspired either by their physician’s conversion to the model or mounting frustration with the impersonal, inattentive and frequently unavailable care at traditional fee-for-service practices.

As pioneering concierge medicine consultants who have thoughtfully addressed thousands of inquiries from prospective patients over the years, Total Access Medical shares insights into the top 5 questions we’re hearing now, and its implications for the future of patient-driven care.

1. What is included in the concierge membership fee?

Not surprisingly, financial considerations are at the top of the list for patients who want to fully understand the benefits of enrolling in a concierge medicine practice. The opportunity to develop a long-term relationship with a physician who provides exceptionally personalized care to a smaller panel of patients is most appreciated, along with the assurance of prompt attention and direct availability after hours. Related to this are inquiries regarding insurance coverage. The doctors at Total Access Medical do not accept insurance. The membership fee is paid out-of-pocket but the benefits of the membership are numerous:

• 24 / 7 Total Access: Each patient has 24/7 access to their physician by email, text, or phone.
• Urgent Appointment Availability: Your Total Access Medical physician will be available to you on the same day or within 24-hours of your emergency.
• Virtual Care: If you choose to not visit the office, your Total Access Medical physician will meet with you through a telemedicine appointment. 
• Longer Exam Times: 20 minute appointment are not be enough for the doctor to know you and your medical needs. The doctors are Total Access Medical are dedicated to you with hour-long appointments for you to ask any clinical question. 
• No Wait Appointments: Appointments begin promptly as scheduled and are not rushed or hurried. Your TAM physician understands the value of your time.
• Home Visits: If medically necessary, your TAM physician will travel to your home or care facility.
• Comprehensive Physicals: In-depth annual physicals to keep you at your healthiest.
• Medical Services During Travel: Review of your travel itinerary, arrangement for necessary vaccinations and access to relevant clinical information.
• Coordinating Specialist Care: Your concierge physician will manage and coordinate your care with specialists, ensuring all your healthcare providers are on the same page.
• Managing Hospital and ER Visits: Should you require hospitalization or emergency care, your concierge doctor will oversee your treatment and ensure continuity of care.
  
• Access to Tests: Any test that is done in the office is covered by the membership fee. This includes bloodwork, EKG, physicals and routine vaccinations.
• Access to a Certified Nutritionist: Work directly with a certified nutritionist to create a dietary plan that fits your unique health and lifestyle goals.

2. My physician has always provided great care, why do I now need to pay a fee to be part of the practice?

While traditional medical practices have served us well, the evolving landscape of healthcare demands a more personalized and accessible approach. Concierge medicine offers a solution by providing enhanced access, thorough care, and a focus on prevention and convenience. The fee associated with concierge medicine ensures that these premium services can be delivered, ultimately leading to better health outcomes and a more satisfying healthcare experience.

3. Are virtual visits or house calls provided at a concierge medicine practice?

The necessity of telemedicine appointments during the pandemic has now expanded into a convenience much valued by patients with busy schedules, or frequent travels, or who have difficulties getting to the doctor’s office. In response, many of the physicians at Total Access Medical have continued to offer virtual visits to patients upon request. House calls, however, are generally offered on a case-by-case basis only, as in-home care is more limited in scope, with minimal access to advanced technology and treatment.

4. Will I receive holistic care from a concierge physician?

The rising interest in prevention, wellness and longevity care has long been a focus of concierge medicine. With extended, unhurried appointments averaging 45 minutes (versus 15 minutes in a traditional fee-for-service practice), concierge physicians have the time to thoroughly know their patients and offer individualized plans to help patients enjoy their best, healthiest lives.

Concierge physicians take a holistic approach to your health, considering all aspects of your well-being. This includes coordinating care with specialists, managing chronic conditions, and providing lifestyle and wellness advice tailored to your unique needs.

5. I only see my doctor once or twice a year so why should I enroll in a concierge practice?

We emphasize why joining a concierge practice is not a frivolous expense, but a genuine investment in optimal health and well-being.

Enrolling in a concierge practice is not just about the number of visits you make to your doctor. It’s about having a dedicated healthcare partner who provides continuous, personalized care, ensuring you maintain optimal health and well-being. The enhanced access, proactive approach, and comprehensive care offered by concierge medicine deliver benefits that can significantly improve your health outcomes and overall quality of life, making it a worthwhile investment even for those who rarely visit the doctor.