What exactly is concierge medicine, and how is it changing the healthcare industry? Keep reading to find out. In this guide, we’ll review everything you need to know! Doctors usually spend between 13 and 16 minutes with a patient. In many cases, 15 minutes isn’t long enough to review someone’s medical history and diagnose the issue. Rushing to send a patient home can cause many doctors to miss pertinent details. If you’re worried about the current healthcare you’re receiving, consider concierge medicine. Read on to discover the benefits of concierge medicine before your first appointment today.
What is Concierge Medicine?
Before diagnosing your condition, a doctor needs to know as much about you as possible. It’s important that they review your medical history, family history, and the symptoms you’re experiencing. They might need to schedule you for bloodwork and testing to learn more about your health as well.
It’s difficult for busy doctors today to gather all your health information and treat you in a visit that lasts just 13 to 16 minutes. Most doctors want to take time to develop a relationship with their patients but their patient load and appointments per day don’t allow that. Many primary care doctors are seeing 20 to 30 patients a day, which leaves little time to get to know you. The more they know about your health, the more likely they can provide a personalized approach to healthcare.
Concierge medicine takes a more personalized approach to healthcare services. Instead of scheduling a few short appointments throughout the year, you can pay an annual fee. Then, you’ll receive 24/7 access to your healthcare provider, and you’ll have immediate access to your doctor instead of waiting days to see a doctor when you most need one.
Choosing a concierge medical practice will give you more time with your doctor. You can text or call your doctor as needed with your questions or concerns. You can also schedule same-day appointments with your doctor. Your doctor already knows you and your health history so you can be sure that the treatment you’re receiving is what’s best for you.
Services for Concierge Medicine
Concierge medicine healthcare professionals go a step beyond primary care. Having more time with your doctor can help you develop a preventative care or overall wellness plan. You can schedule advanced physicals that go beyond 15 minutes as well.
Some doctors also provide wellness services. For example, you might discuss your concerns about:
- Brain health
- Stress management
- Difficulties sleeping
- Nutrition planning
- Weight loss
- Physical performance
- Age Management & Anti-Aging Treatments
Your doctor can provide coaching designed to improve your overall wellness.
A stronger relationship with your doctor will ensure you receive individualized care. Your doctor will get to the root of the problem you’re experiencing. At the same time, they’ll help you avoid future health issues, too.
You can learn more about how it works here.
The Benefits of Concierge Medicine
Still on the fence about signing up for concierge medicine? These benefits could change your mind.
1. Increased Availability
If your health condition is getting worse, you’ll need to visit a doctor right away. Otherwise, you might not receive treatment until your symptoms become severe.
With concierge healthcare, you won’t have to worry about waiting weeks or even months before your doctor can see you. Instead, you’ll have peace of mind. Your doctor will likely have the availability to provide a same or next-day appointment.
Their increased availability can also mean you’ll see them for appointments more often, too and they will spend more time with you.
2. Personalized Appointments
Americans spend more time traveling (34 minutes) and waiting (11 minutes) for doctor’s appointments than any other service. That’s longer than it takes to get your driver’s license at the DMV.
It’s difficult for a doctor to provide you with the care you need during an appointment. Most doctors are concerned about staying on schedule. If they rush to get you out of the door, you might end up coming back again if something gets missed or your condition worsens.
With concierge medicine, on the other hand, you won’t have to worry about sitting around. Once you meet with your doctor, they won’t rush you out the door, either. Instead, you can schedule longer, more personalized appointments with your doctor.
These personalized appointments give your doctor more time to determine the cause of your condition.
They’ll review your medical history in depth. Then, they’ll analyze your health condition and develop a personalized healthcare plan.
Most concierge doctors also take on fewer patients. This allows them to dedicate more time to each patient. Because they’re not heavily booked every day, they’re also able to check in on their patients more often.
By choosing concierge healthcare, you can receive the medical attention you need and deserve.
3. Preventative Care
Many doctors are focused on solving the present problem for their patients. Concierge doctors, on the other hand, are dedicated to their patients long-term.
They’ll help develop a personalized, preventative care plan with your ongoing healthcare in mind. Preventative care can help you decrease how often you need to see a doctor over the years. As a result, you might save money in the long term as well.
4. Constant Monitoring
Do you have an ongoing healthcare issue that’s been lasting for years? Not every condition has a cure. In some cases, you might need regular monitoring.
Your concierge doctor can help you live comfortably. Their approach could help improve your overall quality of life.
If you have a chronic health condition, your doctor can also monitor you to track the condition’s progression. In the case that problems arise, they can help you review your options to determine the best course of treatment.
5. Cost-Effective Options
Minor health problems cost about $68 per doctor’s office visit. More serious problems, on the other hand, cost $234.
You won’t have to pay for every individual appointment with concierge medicine. Instead, you’ll pay an annual cost. For many patients, concierge healthcare is a more cost-effective option.
If you have a chronic illness, concierge medicine can ensure you receive the care you need while paying for services you can afford.
However, you should know the cost of concierge healthcare won’t replace your health insurance. It also doesn’t include visits to specialists, emergency departments, or out-of-network care.
Concierge Medicine: A Personal Approach to Healthcare
Concierge medicine could allow you to receive healthcare services with a personal touch and give you better and more convenient access to your doctor. Your healthcare provider will consider your long-term health. With their help, you can develop a preventative healthcare plan that improves your overall condition.
Looking for VIP concierge medical care? Choose a doctor that visits you with full-service medical services. Contact us today to get started.