Frequently Asked Questions
What is DPC?
Direct Primary Care, or DPC, is a model of healthcare that puts patients first by getting rid of the red tape by which most other traditional practices are restricted.
Is DPC the same as concierge medicine?
The terms are often used interchangeably and essentially refer to the same principle. Direct Primary Care is a healthcare model focused on putting the patient first. That means treating them when they need it, never rushing patients through appointments, and being proactive with healthcare treatment plans. The doctor-patient relationship is just as the name suggests – direct. Direct Primary Care clinics don’t accept insurance, rather they choose to work directly with the patient, providing wholesale labs, deeply discounted prescription prices, and other costs savings along the way.
Does Harmony Health accept insurance?
No, we do not. Perhaps the most critical distinction in our model of care centers on a direct, personal relationship between you and your doctor. That directness carries over to our business model as well. While the tender mercies of an insurance company might apply to the fixing of a damaged fender on your automobile, we see no reason for any insurer to have a voice about either the quality or the cost of your family’s care.
We forgo insurance payments in order to save our patients from the arbitrary, intrusive decisions that inevitably follow with third-party payors. Furthermore, this direct fee-for-services arrangement frees us from the typical contractual agreements that prevent physicians from offering wholesale prices on laboratory tests, imaging, and medications.
If I'm a member of Harmony Health, do I still need health insurance?
Yes. We recommend our patients continue a major medical plan with a high deductible and health savings account to ensure financial help should hospitalization or referral to a specialist be necessary. There are a number of options on the market including health sharing ministries such as Medi-Share, Samaritan Ministries, Liberty HealthShare and others. Please feel free to contact them for more information about their programs.
Is my membership fee tax deductible?
Unfortunately, no. Your retainer is not yet defined as a “medical expense” in most states and as such is not deductible. Please confer with your tax consultant to clarify tax consequences in your particular circumstances.
If I have Medicare can I still sign up for a membership?
Yes, however, Dr. McCoskey has opted out of the Medicare program. This means we do not bill Medicare for any of our services. You will, of course, still have your benefits, but we do not bill Medicare for our services and you agree to pay this cost. Specialist fees will still be covered per your plan. Please see more details in the attached document here.
What will my first appointment be like?
We will discuss your medical and family history, measure your vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen level, weight) and conduct a physical exam. Following this, we will discuss a plan for your health goals or action needed on any issues, order tests, dispense medications, and answer your questions. At your first appointment, you will also receive information about how to best contact us for various situations, i.e. medication refills vs scheduling phone or office appointments.