What Is Direct Primary Care (DPC)?
Direct Primary Care (DPC) is a contemporary, membership-based healthcare model that removes the traditional insurance middleman. Employees pay a low monthly fee for direct access to their primary care provider. This includes office visits, telehealth, basic labs, and preventive care — without co-pays or surprise bills.
Why Employers Are Choosing DPC
Employers across industries are adopting Direct Primary Care as part of their benefits plan to cut costs, boost employee health, and improve retention. DPC works well with high-deductible health plans (HDHPs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) to provide high-value care at a reduced cost.
Key Benefits for Employers
Significant Cost Savings
• Lower overall healthcare spending: DPC reduces unnecessary urgent care, ER visits, and specialist referrals—leading to fewer claims on your insurance plan.
• Predictable costs: A fixed monthly membership fee per employee offers budget stability.
• Reduced absenteeism: Employees gain quicker access to care and spend less time away from work.
• Employers who adopt DPC often see a 15–30% decrease in healthcare-related costs.
Complements High-Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs)
• Keep insurance premiums low while providing employees with quick access to routine and preventive care.
• Shield employees from high out-of-pocket costs for everyday health needs.
• Concentrate insurance coverage on major, unexpected medical events.
Works Seamlessly with Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)
• Starting January 2026, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) can be used toward DPC memberships, with a limit of up to $150 a month for individuals and $300 a month for families.
• Employees can use their HSAs alongside DPC to cover out-of-pocket expenses like imaging, labs, or medications not included in the DPC membership.
• Save tax-free funds for future medical needs.
• Enhance financial control and engagement in personal health decisions.
Accessible, Relationship-Based Care
• Same-day or next-day appointments for most issues.
• Longer visits that focus on prevention and wellness, not just symptoms.
• Direct contact with their provider through text, phone, or video.
• Personalized care from a doctor who knows them well.
Boosts Employee Satisfaction and Retention
• Minimize stress from navigating complicated insurance systems.
• Boost morale and productivity by promoting better health and reducing frustration.
• Enhance company culture by demonstrating a sincere commitment to employee well-being.
DPC in Practice
Example: An employer offers DPC membership for $100/month per employee and a high-deductible insurance plan.
• The company reduces premium costs.
• Employees have unlimited access to their DPC provider with no co-pays.
• ER and urgent care visits decrease significantly, lowering claim expenses.
• Health outcomes improve through consistent, proactive care.
The Bottom Line
Direct Primary Care isn’t just a healthcare model — it’s a strategic business move. By including DPC in your benefits, you can:
• Reduce healthcare costs.
• Give employees easy access to personalized care.
• Create a healthier, more productive team.
Next Steps
1. Contact Proven Medical as your primary care provider for your employees.
2. Compare your current healthcare costs with estimated savings from DPC plus HDHP.
3. Educate employees on how DPC and HSAs work together to maximize value.
