If you’ve ever left a doctor’s visit feeling rushed, like there wasn’t time to really explain what was wrong, you’re not alone. More people in Fernandina Beach are looking for a better way to get primary care, and direct primary care keeps coming up. The first question we usually hear is simple. How much does it cost, and is it worth it?
What Is Direct Primary Care?
Direct primary care, or DPC, is a membership model. Instead of billing your insurance for every visit, you pay a flat monthly fee directly to your doctor. That covers your care, so there are no copays for office visits and no surprise statements weeks later. The point is to bring back the doctor patient relationship, with longer visits and easier access built around your goals instead of billing codes.
At Island Lifestyle Medicine, that doctor is Dr. Diana R. Twiggs, MD, FAAFP, DipABLM. She’s board certified in both Family Medicine and Lifestyle Medicine and has cared for the Fernandina Beach community for over 25 years. After decades in traditional healthcare settings, she built this practice so she could give patients the time and attention the old system rarely allows.
How Much Does It Cost?
Prices vary regionally, depending on the practice and what’s included. At Island Lifestyle Medicine, membership is billed at a flat monthly rate, known as the Founder rate, with the option to pay monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually. There’s no long contract and no hidden add-ons. A rare exception may be a specially ordered vaccine or specialty medication.
What’s Included?
Your membership isn’t just a few visits a year. It covers care that would normally come with separate charges, including:
- All medically necessary office visits, with no cap on how often you’re seen
- Lifestyle medicine consultations and preventative health visits
- Chronic disease management and an extensive health inventory
- Personalized wellness planning
- In office lab draws and urinalysis
- 24/7 phone or text access to your doctor
- Shared and group medical appointments
- Telehealth visits and house calls when appropriate
Add all of that up, and the flat fee starts to look very different. You’re paying for a real relationship with a physician who’s available when you need her.
Is It Worth It?
That depends on what you value and what you’re spending now. In a typical insurance based office, visits run a few minutes and reaching your doctor can mean days of phone tag. With a small patient panel, you can call, text, or get a same day visit when something comes up. If you manage a chronic condition or visit the doctor often, a flat fee can also save you money compared to stacking copays, urgent care trips, and separate lab charges. Many members pair a DPC membership with a higher deductible plan for major events, which keeps them covered for the big things while making everyday care simpler.
Keep in mind that DPC isn’t insurance. Members typically still carry a plan for specialist visits, imaging, hospital care, and outside lab testing, then use their membership for everyday primary care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this replace my insurance? No. DPC covers your everyday primary care, but it’s not insurance. Many members keep a plan for emergencies, specialists, and hospital care, then use their membership for day to day needs.
Is there a limit on visits? No. You’re seen as often as it’s medically necessary, so you never have to weigh whether a concern is worth the trip.
Can I reach my doctor after hours? Yes. Your membership includes 24/7 phone or text access.
The Bottom Line
Direct primary care costs more up front than a traditional copay, but that fee buys time, access, and a doctor who actually knows you. For many people, that means better care and fewer surprise bills. If you’re ready for primary care done a different, better way, start your membership today or call us at (904) 929-9355.