Concierge medicine, also known as los angeles concierge medicine or membership medicine, is a growing trend of private, personalized health care.
But how exactly does it compare to regular medical care? This article examines the key differences.
What is Concierge Medicine?
Concierge medicine provides VIP treatment for patients who pay an annual or monthly fee directly to their doctor.
This gives you access to services generally not covered by health insurance plans, such as:
- 24/7 access to your doctor via phone, text, or email
- Little to no wait times for appointments
- Longer, more in-depth visits
- Coordination of care with specialists
- Preventative health planning
- Enhanced privacy and amenities
The Los Angeles concierge medicine model allows doctors to focus on patient care instead of paperwork. They take fewer patients, yet charge more per patient through concierge fees.
How it Compares to Traditional Primary Care
Concierge medicine differs quite a bit from standard health care. Here’s an overview of the main differences:
| Factor | Concierge Medicine | Traditional Primary Care |
| Cost | $100-$500 per month, rarely covered by insurance | Lower cost, often covered fully or partially by insurance |
| Wait Times | Little to no wait, seen right away | May have longer waits for appointments |
| Access | 24/7 access via phone, text, email | More limited access and response times |
| Visit Length | 30 minutes or longer | 15 minutes on average |
| Patient Load | 200-600 patients per doctor | 2,000+ patients per doctor |
Cost
The concierge model comes at a price – annual fees ranging from $1,200 to $10,000 per patient.
This allows concierge doctors to take less patients and provide personalized care. Traditional primary care is covered by health insurance, although deductibles and co-pays may apply.
Wait Times
You’ll get far more individual attention with concierge care. Appointments are readily available within 24 hours, you’re seen right away without waiting, and visits can last as long as needed.
Standard doctors can have booked calendars, packed waiting rooms, and brief 15-minute visits.
Access
With concierge medicine, your doctor is available around the clock via phone, text, or email.
You’ll have a direct line to them at all times. Access is far more restricted with regular primary care doctors.
Patient Load
A typical primary care doctor may have 2,000+ patients under their care. Concierge doctors cap their membership at 200-600 patients, allowing them to provide personalized attention. This lighter patient load is made feasible by the high membership fees.
The Pros and Cons of Concierge Medicine
Concierge medicine has noteworthy advantages – but also some downsides to consider:
Pros
- Immediate access to your doctor
- Long visits focused just on you
- On-demand preventative care
- Coordination of specialty care
- Enhanced amenities and facilities
Cons
- Very high membership costs
- Limited insurance coverage
- Concierge fees don’t cover prescriptions or tests
- Availability is limited based on geography
Concierge services deliver an elevated healthcare experience. However most patients end up paying for concierge care out-of-pocket in addition to existing insurance and prescriptions. It ultimately comes down to your budget and preferences.
Is Concierge Medicine Worth It For You?
Concierge medicine offers personalized attention and care when you need it. For busy professionals or anyone seeking higher-end services, it can be worthwhile. Consider the key factors below:
If any of the following apply, concierge medicine may be a fit:
- You have a packed schedule with little flexibility
- You have complex care management needs
- You want medical advice without delay
- You prefer private, upgraded healthcare facilities
- You seek a deeper doctor-patient relationship
If any of the following apply, traditional primary care may suit you best:
- You are satisfied with your current care
- You have relatively simple health needs
- You are on a limited healthcare budget
- You don’t need instant access to a doctor
Every patient has different priorities. By comparing concierge vs traditional care models, you can determine what healthcare option works best for your needs and preferences. Reach out with any other questions!
