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What is Direct Primary Care?

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 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.

FeatureDirect Primary Care (DPC)Concierge Medicine
Monthly Cost$200/month at CHDPCOften $250–$500+
Insurance BilledNo insurance involvedYes — insurance is still billed for visits
Patient Panel SizeSmaller (200–600 patients per doctor)Larger (600–1,000+ patients)
Appointment AccessSame/next-day, unhurriedOften similar, but may still have wait times
PhilosophyAffordable, accessible care for the average personPremium, “white-glove” care for those willing to pay more
ExtrasBasic labs, procedures, and virtual care often includedMay include annual physicals, wellness perks, travel medicine, etc.
Who It’s ForPeople who want convenient, affordable carePeople 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

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