What is concierge medicine?

There are various models for receiving health care. The concierge medicine model was first founded in 1996. Participants in this healthcare model receive health care for a fee during a determined period of time, which provides greater continuity of care and personalization of treatment plans.  Concierge medicine is a healthcare model that allows for a stronger patient – provider relationship. There is improved access and communication between the two parties. It has the potential for increased visits throughout the year based on personalized patient desires and need. (Alhawshani and Kahn.)

This is in comparison to the traditional healthcare model that most people are accustomed to. In this model a patient calls the office to schedule specific appointment times that are then booked by office receptionists in the healthcare system’s predetermined time slots. Medical health insurance is used to pay or partially pay for the visit based on insurance plan and appointment type.

We have all experienced jumping through hoops to get the healthcare we need and deserve. Many people have experienced being booked in the wrong appointment type or needing longer conversations than that time period allows. This can be highly frustrating for both the patient and provider. We can start feeling like we are stuck in the health care system cogwheels. 

This is where concierge medicine can shine!

Why concierge medicine?

Concierge medicine removes the restrictions of the traditional healthcare system. It decreases the number of middle men between you and your provider. Patients have direct contact with their providers, and experience quick response times. The patient and provider can then determine how long an appointment time the patient may need and if future appointments may be appropriate. Recurring visits are included in your plan. This allows for longer and more frequent time with your provider. It also allows the provider – patient relationship to be stronger and more in depth when not restricted by pre-determined time or health insurance restrictions. Satisfaction for both patients and providers is higher within the concierge model.

True connection between patient and provider forms over months and years with the use of concierge medicine models. Stronger trusting relationships can be nurtured and blossom. Patients feel more supported by the formation of this relationship. Under such care, they can flourish!

The lack of time restrictions and frequency of visits, allow for thorough evaluation and management of concerns, as well as physical and mental well-being.

Within a concierge model, patients can meet with their providers as little or as much as they desire.

At Second to None, this model of healthcare is ideal for women with complex medical conditions that necessitate and deserve ongoing visits over a long period of time.  In addition to addressing your primary medical condition, with concierge medicine, Second to None is available to address acute issues such as urinary tract infections and vaginitis in acute visits. Patients involved in concierge medicine models have access to physician advocacy and care coordination.

Directly book an appointment here or contact us  and we will seamlessly book you an appointment to discuss your needs and provide you with swift access to care. You have a direct line to your physician.

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Works Cited:

A literature review on the impact of concierge medicine services on individual healthcare. J Family Med Prim Care. 2024 Jun 14;13(6):2183–2186. doi: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_1685_23