Concierge medicine, also called membership-based medicine, is a model where patients pay an annual fee, or “retainer,” for enhanced access and personalized care from their primary care physician. In the New York concierge medicine model, patients benefit from services such as:
- Same-day appointments for urgent issues
- 24/7 direct access to the physician via phone, email, or text
- Minimal or no wait times for appointments
- Extended, more in-depth appointment times
Because concierge doctors typically have fewer patients, they can dedicate more time to each individual and provide faster access when urgent care is needed. This approach allows for deeper patient-doctor relationships, with a focus on preventative care, wellness, and disease prevention.
What is a Concierge Physician?
In addition to providing personalized care, some concierge physicians carefully select and vet any specialists they refer their patients to, ensuring quality care. They can also expedite specialist appointments when necessary, depending on the patient’s condition or urgency.
What Does Concierge Medicine Offer?
In essence, concierge medicine bridges healthcare and hospitality, making every effort to accommodate the patient’s needs. Treatments and recommendations are tailored to the individual, with an emphasis on comprehensive, patient-focused care. This model is ideal for those seeking timely access, proactive health management, and a more personalized healthcare experience.