DPC FAQs
Is DPC Insurance?
No. Direct Primary Care is not insurance. It is a direct payment model for primary care services. You will still want to maintain health insurance or participate in a health care sharing ministry for hospitalizations, specialist visits, imaging, and other services outside the scope of your membership.
Do You File Insurance at all?
No. We do not bill or contract with insurance companies. We have opted out of Medicare and do not participate in private insurance networks.
If you choose, you may submit itemized receipts to your insurance for services not included in your membership (such as discounted labs or medications). However, many patients find that our direct pricing is still more affordable and appreciate avoiding the complexity of insurance billing.
Well, why do I even have insurance?
Think of your membership like routine maintenance for your health—similar to how you don’t use car insurance to pay for gasoline or oil changes.
Insurance is best saved for unexpected, expensive events such as surgeries, hospitalizations, and specialist care. Many employers and patients who use DPC report overall cost reductions of 15–20% through fewer claims, lower premiums, and improved access to care.
DPC is often a win for you—and for employers.
Can employers offer direct primary care memberships to their employees?
Yes. Employers may purchase DPC memberships for their employees. Many employers pair DPC with a higher-deductible health plan, which often lowers total health plan spending while improving access to primary care.
If you are an employer interested in exploring this option, please contact Dr. Allen for more information. Your insurance broker or plan administrator can also assist with plan coordination.
How does a DPC membership affect a HSA?
Beginning January 1, 2026, new federal legislation is expected to recognize Direct Primary Care fees as eligible medical expenses under IRS guidelines. This means that—once implementation is finalized—you may be able to use HSA funds to pay for your DPC membership with pre-tax dollars.
We will keep members updated as official IRS guidance becomes available.
I have Insurance. Why would I spend money joining a DPC?
Think of DPC as a membership for comprehensive, accessible primary care—similar to how you invest in a cell phone plan, streaming services, or community memberships. Having a dedicated physician who knows you well can help you stay healthy enough to continue enjoying all of those things.
Can I still join if I have Medicare?
Yes. Medicare beneficiaries can join by signing a required Medicare private contract, which states that neither you nor the doctor will bill Medicare for services provided in our office.
Medicare may still cover laboratory testing, imaging, specialist visits, and medications performed or prescribed outside our office according to Medicare’s rules.
I have Medicare. I’m on a fixed income. Why would I spent extra money on DPC?
While DPC is an additional cost, many Medicare patients choose it for the convenience, access, time, and continuity it provides. DPC membership may also help reduce certain downstream healthcare expenses by offering more accessible chronic disease management, lower drug costs, same-day visits, and longer appointments. Results vary by individual.
If you have concerns or questions, please speak directly with Dr. Allen so we can help you determine whether DPC is a good fit for your needs.
Are my membership fees tax deductible?
For the 2025 tax year, North Carolina may allow certain qualifying medical expenses to be deducted if you itemize deductions, but eligibility depends on your individual situation. DPC fees are not guaranteed to qualify. Please consult your tax professional to verify deductibility in your specific circumstances.
Practice FAQs
Are there any copays to be seen in person?
No. Your membership fee covers any office visit(s), phone calls, emails, texts, telemedicine visits, etc. you may have.
Are there any additional fees?
The only additional fees that you may encounter would be for non-covered procedures, labs, medications or supplies for procedures, which are all offered near cost. These will be discussed with you clearly before any service is rendered.
Is there a contract?
Yes—patients sign a simple membership agreement, but the membership is flexible. You may cancel at any time with 30 days’ written notice. If you cancel during a billing cycle, we will refund the unused portion of your membership fee on a prorated basis, as outlined in your Patient Agreement.
If you choose to rejoin after canceling, a $150 re-enrollment fee will apply.
How is membership paid?
Your membership dues are drafted on the 1st of each month through our secure electronic medical record system, Atlas.MD.
What if I need to have imaging done or see a specialist?
We can order any imaging you need, and many local facilities offer discounted cash pricing. If you prefer to use insurance, most imaging centers can still process your claim. We are also happy to refer you to the specialist of your choice and coordinate your care as needed.
What if I need medical attention while I’m away from home or at my second home?
Because we are not limited by traditional insurance billing requirements, we can provide flexible care options even when you’re away. Many illnesses can be evaluated through a phone call, secure message, or video visit when clinically appropriate.
We can also help identify a nearby pharmacy and send prescriptions when needed and safe to do so.
