Synergize DPC

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FAQs

What is Direct Primary Care?

Direct Primary Care, or DPC, is a model of healthcare that puts patients first by getting rid of the red tape that constrains traditional practices. How? It's simple: we don't accept insurance, and – believe it or not – this actually saves you money in the long run.

How will this save me money?

You won't have to pay a co-pay for office visits or routine physicals. Also you'll be able to avoid many visits altogether by sending your questions directly to us via email and text – something you won't get from a traditional practice. We've negotiated amazing deals for prescription medications, blood tests, X-rays, and MRI/CT scans on your behalf. If we had contracts with insurance companies, we would be legally obligated to charge higher prices. More importantly, since you are getting all this amazing care from us, you can cut way back on your insurance premiums. Most DPC patients find a high-deductible, low-premium insurance plan so they're covered in the case of a major health issue. But leave the rest of your healthcare to us.

Is this the same as "concierge medicine"?

Not quite...The terms are often mistakenly used interchangeably, but they are not the same. Both DPC and concierge practices charge a periodic fee, however, under the concierge model, this fee only gets you access; that is, it doesn't actually cover any of your care. Instead a concierge practice still bills insurance for your visits. Under DPC, your visits and other care are included in your fee, plus you're provided with other incredible benefits like wholesale pricing for labs and radiology studies, deeply discounted prescription prices, direct digital communication with your doctor, and all the rest.

Will I benefit from Direct Primary Care if I don't require frequent medical attention?

Of course. Everyone benefits from a service tailored directly to them. That’s why we offer truly custom healthcare. We’re here for you if you're sick or hurt, but we also help you proactively maintain good overall health. Every visit with us will be thorough, relaxed, and as long as you need to address your health concerns. The longer you're our patient, the more we learn about your health and lifestyle, and the better we can help you maintain that health.

What if I need labs or imaging done?

We have negotiated wholesale prices with local labs. Price lists available in the clinic – no hidden fees or big bills a few weeks later!! You can also use your insurance to pay for labs and imaging. Think about your health insurance similar to car insurance. You wouldn’t submit a tiny fender bender to your insurance if your deductible wasn’t met, why submit small lab expenses?

I have a lot of health problems. Do you charge extra?

Our monthly membership fees are the same price for every patient, regardless of pre-existing conditions. Some labs, tests, and procedures may cost extra but we will negotiate wholesale pricing on these! We will manage your health problems to the extent of our practice limitations and will refer to a specialist when necessary. And if a referral is needed, we will still be your quarterback and make sure everyone will be in the loop.

What if I need to go to the hospital?

If you feel you have a life-threatening emergency, call 911 immediately. Synergize DPC does not have admitting privileges at any hospital. If you need to be hospitalized, we will work to help coordinate care during and after your hospitalization. While no one can predict when your appendix will rupture, the goal of our clinic is to minimize hospitalizations by focusing on preventative care and increasing accessibility to your doctor. Remember, you will still need insurance to cover any hospitalization.

What if the doctor goes out of town?

Dr. Sumner is always available via telemedicine and patients will be notified of any such events ahead of time. This is one of the big differences with Synergize DPC compared to a traditional practice – you will ALWAYS have access to your doctor. NOT just a nurse answering service. In the event you need to physically be seen while Dr. Sumner is unavailable, she will partner with trusted area physicians to ensure her patients receive quality care.

Want to know more about direct primary care?

Here’s a few articles that profile the Direct Primary Care approach to medicine:

FORBES: Direct Primary Care: Restoring The Doctor-Patient Relationship

TIME: Medicine is About to Get Personal

US News: Physicians Abandon Insurance for Blue Collar Model

AARP: The Doctor Will See You But Not Your Insurance

American Academy of Family Physicians: Direct Primary Care

WRAL: Patients Pay Monthly Fee, Not Insurance Co-Pay to See Raleigh Physician

Synergize DPC information on Health Beyond Insurance (HBI) platform is intended for consumers to connect with Synergize DPC, and to provide helpful information to consumers regarding providers' products and services. HBI does not endorse, guarantee, or warrant the products or services of Synergize DPC, and HBI is not an agent, or representative of, or otherwise responsible for or on behalf of, Synergize DPC. HBI never makes any medical decisions for you or on your behalf, nor does HBI ever take any medical action in response to information transmitted or received by the Synergize DPC. HBI does not take part in any medical diagnoses, procedures, or recommendations, or in any medical, prescription, service.