FAQs (Frequently asked questions)

What is direct primary care (DPC)?

DPC is a healthcare model that allows patients to directly pay their primary care providers for services, bypassing traditional insurance. In this approach, patients typically pay a monthly fee that covers a range of services, such as sick visits, one annual well visit, and urgent care. This model emphasizes a strong patient-provider relationship, often resulting in more personalized care and greater accessibility.

How is Direct Primary Care different than concierge medicine?

DPC is characterized by a membership model where patients pay a monthly fee directly to their primary care provider for a range of services, without involving insurance. This model often allows for more personalized attention, longer appointment times, and easier access to the physician. On the other hand, concierge medicine typically involves higher fees AND utilizes insurance for billing. While both models aim to enhance the patient experience, DPC often focuses on affordability and accessibility, whereas concierge medicine leans towards a more premium experience with additional amenities. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on individual preferences for healthcare access and financial considerations.

Do I need health insurance?

We see both insured and uninsured patients. However, we do recommend that all members have health insurance that covers them in case of an emergency (ex: hospitalization). All of our In-Office testing (i.e. COVID/flu, urinalysis, urine pregnancy) is included at no extra cost. Services provided by specialists, hospitals, as well as labs and prescription costs are NOT included. Therefore it is the responsibility of each patient to have insurance for these services, unless they plan to pay for them out-of-pocket.

Which health insurance plans are the best for patients who use DPC?

In general, your insurance plan should reflect your individual health needs. For example, if you require frequent hospitalizations, high medication costs or multiple specialist visits it may be beneficial to have a low-deductible, high premium (monthly cost) health plan to avoid high out-of-pocket costs. However, if you plan to use your DPC physician for most of your health needs, a high deductible, low premium plan that covers you in case of emergencies would be the most cost effective solution.

What if I don't currently have health insurance?

Patients of Shor Medical who do not have health insurance can obtain coverage through AtlasMD, a network designed specifically for DPC patients. Please refer to the following link to see pricing and coverage details: https://atlas.direct/clinics.

What medical conditions do you treat?

Please refer to the "About Us" page for a list of conditions we treat.

Can children become members of Shor Medical?

Yes, however we only see children aged 16-18 when accompanied by a parent who is also a member.

Can I contact my physician after hours?

If you need to contact your doctor after hours, there are a few options available. For urgent matters, you can call your doctor directly to his personal cell through the phone number provided to you upon signing on. If your doctor is unavailable immediately, please allow within the next business day to have your call returned. Alternatively, you can send a message to your provider through the patient portal, if it is a non-urgent matter and can expect a reply within the next business day as well.

*If you are having an emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room

What if I decide to cancel my membership?

You will need to provide a written notice of your termination 30 days or more prior to termination of your membership. Keep in mind that canceling your membership means you will no longer have access to the personalized care and services of Shor Medical, which includes same-day appointments, extended visits, and direct communication with your doctor.

Do you accept walk-ins?

We do not accept walk-ins. Please call the office to schedule an appointment if you are interested in signing up.

Is there a limit to the number of visits I can use?

No, however, if by provider discretion it is determined that we are unable to provide safe and quality care at an appropriate level for you, we will work with you to transition your care to another organization that can continue overseeing your medical care.

Do your offer bloodwork in your office?

No, however as we expand we are planning on adding a lab tech to our team so patients can have convenient access for bloodwork in our office.