Is Concierge Medicine Worth It?

Have you every left a doctor's office feeling like you didn't get the time or attention you needed? Maybe you've struggled to schedule an appointment when you needed it most or spent more time in the waiting room than with your doctor. 

Many people start exploring concierge medicine because of these frustrations. It's a healthcare model designed to put the patient first, offering more access, more time time, and a stronger relationship with your doctor. 

But there's a catch: concierge medicine has an upfront membership fee. So, before you make the investment, you're probably wondering, "Is it worth it?" and "Why concierge medicine?" 

In this article, we'll break down what concierge medicine costs, its benefits, and who it's best suited for so you can decide if it's the right choice for you and your health. 

How much does concierge medicine cost?

The average cost of concierge medicine is usually somewhere between $2,000-$5,000 per year.

At PartnerMD, our membership fee is $2,500 per year or $208.33 per month. We have a transparent cost calculator on our website where you can find out how much your membership might cost.

You have probably heard about some concierge doctors who charge much more – up to $25,000 per year even. However, we’d call that VIP medicine or luxury medicine.

What do you get with a concierge medicine membership?

If you’re going to make that investment, you also want to know what you’re getting out of it.

Most concierge medicine practices guarantee a few standard services, including:

• Same-day or next-day appointments for acute care
• Little to no waiting in the waiting room or exam room
• 24/7 access to care
• Longer appointments, often 30 minutes
• Advanced physicals that go beyond what you’re used to

Some practices will also offer additional services. For instance, at PartnerMD, we offer access to our on-staff certified health coaches and wellness programs included in your membership, as well as coordination of specialist care and two options for a cutting-edge yearly physical.

At almost all concierge practices, you’re paying for enhanced access to a primary care physician who truly knows you. You’re paying for the peace of mind that comes from knowing that when you or your loved ones need care, you’ll be able to get it quickly.

At some concierge practices, you’re also paying for access to the tools required to help you live your best life, achieve your health goals, and prevent illness, not just treat it.

Is concierge medicine worth it for you? 

The big question. For many people, yes. That’s why the model has grown in the last 20+ years from just two concierge medicine physicians to more than 5,000 to 7,000 concierge medicine programs, practices, or other membership medicine and subscription-based healthcare delivery physicians within the United States, according Concierge Medicine Today. 

It can be most beneficial for several groups of people:

• High achievers who enjoy the individualized care concierge medicine offers.
• Individuals with complex existing health issues that require attentive care.
• Adults managing the healthcare of aging parents and in-laws
• Busy professionals who can’t afford to plan work around their primary care.

Whether you value the individualized care that helps you maintain peak performance, the peace of mind from knowing your loved ones have access to the care they need, the ease of scheduling appointments and how that frees up your busy schedule, or something else, investing in concierge medicine can certainly be worth it.

Who should avoid concierge medicine? 

If you’re someone who isn’t going to utilize the service, it may not be for you. We call this re-learning how to use your doctor. For years, going to the doctor has been a struggle, a chore. It was something you actively sought to avoid.

But with concierge medicine, your doctor wants to hear from you and is available to answer your questions. If you don’t take advantage of that, you won’t get the full value of your investment.

It also might not be a good fit for people who still won’t trust their doctor. You have more time with your physician than you’ve ever had. But that time can only be used effectively if you provide enough information about your life and your health.

If you’re not willing to tell your physician everything – the good and the bad – then you’re shortchanging the value they can provide for your long-term health and well-being.

And finally, you won’t see the value of concierge medicine if you aren’t willing to work on your health. Going to see your physician is no longer a hassle with concierge medicine. And when you’re there, you have plenty of time with them.

But if you leave the office and discard what they suggest? Then you’re not taking advantage of what you’re paying for – the attentive, personalized care a concierge doctor has the time to offer.

Ready to learn more about concierge medicine?

Concierge medicine isn't for everyone, but for the right person, it can be life changing. If you value a doctor who truly knows you, appointments when needed, and personalized care that goes beyond just treating illnesses, the investment might be worth every penny. 

That said, it's not for those who won't use the benefits, don't trust their doctor enough to share openly, or aren't ready to take an active role in their health. 

Still not sure? That's perfectly fine. Deciding whether concierge medicine is right for you is a big step, and being fully informed is crucial. 

To help, we've put together a free guide to Understanding Concierge Medicine that dives deeper into this healthcare model. Download it today and take the next step toward making the best choice for your health.