By Dr. Harpreet Tsui, Coronado Health DPC
As a primary care physician, I’ve spent years navigating a healthcare system that often prioritizes billing codes and bureaucracy over patient relationships. That’s why I started Coronado Health Direct Primary Care — to return to what medicine should be: affordable, accessible, and exceptional patient care. If you’ve never heard of Direct Primary Care (DPC), or if you’re curious about how it works, I’d love to tell you!
So, What Is Direct Primary Care?
Direct Primary Care is a healthcare model where patients pay a flat monthly fee directly to their doctor. This fee covers unlimited office visits, extended appointment times, text/phone/video access, and coordinated care with other providers — all without involving insurance.
By cutting out the middleman, I can focus on you — not a chart, not a computer screen, and definitely not an insurance form.
The Benefits of DPC
At Coronado Health DPC, here’s what our patients enjoy:
- No copays, ever
That’s right — come in as often as you need. - Same-day or next-day appointments
No more waiting weeks to be seen for something that can’t wait. - Longer, unrushed visits
We schedule 30–60 minutes per visit so we can actually talk about your health. - Virtual care when you need it
Have a quick question? Text or call me directly. - Transparent pricing
Who Is DPC Good For?
DPC works beautifully for:
- Busy professionals who need fast, flexible access to care
- Families looking for affordable healthcare options
- Small business owners wanting to offer meaningful benefits to employees
- Uninsured or underinsured individuals tired of high deductibles
- Retirees seeking more personal, attentive care
Whether you visit your doctor frequently or just want peace of mind knowing someone’s there when you need them, direct primary care gives you that access and confidence.
DPC vs. Concierge Medicine: What’s the Difference?
Great question — Direct Primary Care (DPC) and Concierge Medicine are often confused because both focus on personalized care and improved access to your doctor. But there are some key differences in cost, insurance involvement, and overall philosophy.
Feature | Direct Primary Care (DPC) | Concierge Medicine |
Monthly Cost | $200/month at CHDPC | Often $250–$500+ |
Insurance Billed | No insurance involved | Yes — insurance is still billed for visits |
Patient Panel Size | Smaller (200–600 patients per doctor) | Larger (600–1,000+ patients) |
Appointment Access | Same/next-day, unhurried | Often similar, but may still have wait times |
Philosophy | Affordable, accessible care for the average person | Premium, “white-glove” care for those willing to pay more |
Extras | Basic labs, procedures, and virtual care often included | May include annual physicals, wellness perks, travel medicine, etc. |
Who It’s For | People who want convenient, affordable care | People seeking luxury, VIP-style service alongside insurance |
How Does DPC Work With Insurance?
Direct primary care is not insurance — and it’s not meant to replace it. Think of your DPC membership like a gym membership for your health. It gives you direct access to your doctor for primary care needs, while a high-deductible health plan (HDHP) or catastrophic insurance can cover emergencies, hospitalizations, or specialist care.
We’re also happy to work with your insurance if you have it — for things like specialist referrals or outside imaging/labs. But at the core, your relationship with me isn’t dictated by what your insurance covers.
Direct Primary Care is healthcare reimagined — simple, transparent, and relationship-based. At Coronado Health DPC, we’re restoring the physician-patient connection, one visit at a time.
If you’re ready to take control of your health, say goodbye to rushed appointments and red tape, and finally feel like your doctor knows you — let’s talk. I’d love to meet you.
—
Dr. Harpreet Tsui, DO
Coronado Health Direct Primary Care
Image by FreePik.com