Direct Primary Care Gains Momentum—Could It Thrive Under Trump’s Health Policies..
A Growing Movement Offering Affordable, Accessible Health Care
Direct primary care (DPC), a health care model that bypasses traditional insurance by charging patients a flat monthly fee, is gaining traction across the United States. With the Trump administration signaling potential reforms to the health care system, experts believe DPC could become an increasingly viable option for many Americans seeking affordable and accessible care.
A Real-World Example: How Direct Primary Care Helped a Family in Crisis
Andrea Meneses discovered the benefits of direct primary care during a family emergency. When her grandmother, visiting from Bolivia, accidentally froze her insulin and needed immediate medical attention without insurance, Meneses turned to Dr. Wendy Molaska, a direct primary care physician in Madison, Wisconsin.
Patients like Meneses pay a monthly fee—typically between $50 and $100—which grants them unlimited access to their doctor without additional costs. For Meneses, this meant affordable, fast access to care that resolved a critical health issue. “After seeing how well the model worked for my grandmother, everyone in my family now sees Dr. Molaska,” she said.
How Direct Primary Care Works
Direct primary care clinics operate on a membership basis, where patients pay a predictable monthly fee. This model covers routine visits, preventive care, and often includes discounts on medications, lab tests, and imaging services. Dr. Molaska, for example, charges between $70 and $85 per month for individuals, with family plans capped at $200. She also collaborates with community pharmacies to provide medications at reduced costs—a significant benefit for uninsured patients.
In addition to affordability, patients appreciate the personal attention they receive. “We don’t have to wait three months for an appointment,” Meneses shared. “My kids’ medications are cheaper, and we get quality care quickly.”
The Role of the Trump Administration
With former President Donald Trump’s administration expressing interest in health care reform, direct primary care could see a boost. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services, mentioned direct primary care favorably during his confirmation hearings, suggesting federal support for models that enhance patient access while reducing bureaucratic red tape.
Health services researcher Gayle Brekke, based in Kansas City, Missouri, sees this as a pivotal moment. “This is the most optimistic I’ve ever been about it,” Brekke noted. “We’re at a threshold where it really could take off.”
Benefits for Doctors and Patients
Direct primary care not only benefits patients but also allows physicians to focus on care rather than navigating insurance claims. By cutting out insurance companies, doctors report reduced burnout and more time with their patients. Dr. Molaska, for instance, maintains a waiting list of 125 patients eager to join her practice, highlighting the demand for this personalized approach.
Challenges and Limitations
Despite its advantages, direct primary care is not without critics. Public health experts caution against viewing it as a replacement for comprehensive health insurance, as the monthly fee does not cover specialized treatments, surgeries, or emergencies. Critics also argue that the model primarily benefits healthier individuals who require minimal medical intervention.
Additionally, while direct primary care can offer cost savings on routine care, the affordability of this model varies significantly based on geographic location and individual health needs.
The Future of Direct Primary Care
As the health care landscape evolves, direct primary care stands at a crossroads. With potential policy shifts under the Trump administration, advocates hope for broader recognition and support of the model. For patients like Meneses, the benefits are clear—affordable, timely, and accessible care that meets their everyday health needs.
The question remains whether direct primary care will expand beyond niche markets to become a mainstream solution for American health care. With growing interest and political support, it just might.
Source : The Canadian Press
