Concierge medicine has been gaining attention lately, especially as traditional doctor’s offices seem busier than ever. Patients find it harder to get quick appointments or have real, unrushed conversations with their doctors.
We’ve talked to countless people who are frustrated with this. They feel like they’re just one of many in a crowded system.
Since 2003, we’ve been helping people discover a different kind of healthcare through concierge medicine. But with all the talk around this approach, some myths have emerged, confusing those curious about making a switch.
Let’s clear up three of the biggest misconceptions about concierge medicine and get to the truth of what it can offer you.
When people hear "concierge medicine," they often picture something exclusive and think, "That’s for wealthy people." In the early days, that image wasn’t far off.
Concierge medicine started in Seattle in 1996 when two physicians charged patients $25,000 to provide the same level of care they had provided to the NBA’s Seattle Supersonics. Today, we’d call that VIP Medicine or Luxury Medicine.
However, things have changed a lot since then.
Today, the typical cost of concierge medicine is more like $2,000 to $5,000 annually, making it far more affordable.
Concierge practices do treat wealthy people, don’t get us wrong. However, they have become a healthcare option for a range of people, not just the very wealthy. Many of our patients are families and professionals who simply want a closer responsive relationship with their doctor. Concierge medicine is more about value than luxury. You get a more proactive approach to your health and an all-around less stressful experience.
Another misconception is that concierge medicine is only helpful if you’re managing a serious health issue. However, concierge medicine is designed to support people at every stage of health, whether you’re dealing with chronic conditions or want to stay ahead of the game.
Plenty of healthy people ranging from busy professionals, young adults, and middle-aged parents benefit from concierge medicine.
Not only is it an investment in preventive care and comprehensive health, but it’s also a partnership with a physician who puts your needs first.
With concierge medicine, you’ll get access to wellness resources, routine screenings, and a doctor who has the time to understand your complete health picture so any potential issues can be caught early.
It is important to remember that a lack of illness is not the only indicator of good health. A concierge physician has the time to dig deeper into your family and medical history to help you identify risk factors that could cause problems down the road. They then help you form a plan to reduce your risk.
It’s easy to assume that concierge medicine is primarily for older adults who need more regular check-ups. Yes, seniors absolutely benefit from the extra attention that concierge medicine offers. However, concierge medicine helps patients achieve their best health at any age.
At the core of concierge medicine is personalized health. The healthcare you receive is individualized to meet your unique health goals.
Your physician will discuss your lifestyle habits such as exercise, work, and diet. Then, they help align your current routine with the best practices and give you the necessary tools to improve your health.
In fact, being proactive about your health by joining a concierge practice when you are young may be more beneficial in the long run, because lifestyle changes and risk reduction can have a more significant impact when initiated earlier.
Concierge medicine is a care model that gives physicians and patients more time together to form a deeper, meaningful relationship.
Because concierge physicians take on fewer patients, they have the ability to offer their patients conveniences beyond the benefits of traditional primary care, including:
Ultimately, concierge medicine is about providing a healthcare experience that's both personalized and accessible, which is beneficial to everyone.