What is Direct Primary Care (DPC)?
Direct Primary Care is a membership-based healthcare model that may cover 80-90% of patients’ medical needs. It is a patient-centered, whole-body, integrated approach that has been proven to enhance health and productivity while substantially reducing medical costs associated with today’s current healthcare model. Providers offer longer appointments with no copays and no deductibles, and customize treatment plans to meet the goals of each individual patient. Learn more about DPC.
Do I have to use a provider from the Vital Edge Health system?
Yes. To receive direct primary care benefits from Vital Edge Health (VEH), members must choose a provider from the VEH network. Vital Edge Health is not responsible for charges incurred outside of the VEH network.
Can my VEH provider replace my current primary care provider through my insurance plan?
Your Vital Edge Health (VEH) provider can serve as your primary care provider, however, VEH does NOT bill insurance. Your VEH provider is covered through a membership-based plan offered through your employer.
What if I have a pre-existing condition? Can I still become a member?
Yes, Vital Edge Health is open to everyone, it does not deny membership for age, for pre-existing conditions or for any other reason.
How is DPC different from Health Insurance?
Direct Primary Care through Vital Edge Health is a membership-based program through your employer and may cover 80-90% of patients’ healthcare needs. When paired with major medical or cost sharing solutions, members receive exceptional and comprehensive healthcare and coverage.
Where are you located? Do you have direct primary care clinics near me?
We are located in Southern Oregon. Several clinics are being part of the Vital Edge Health Network – find our providers here – and we can also tap into the HINT and Clearwater networks to find a DPC clinic near you.
How does DPC work with Health Insurance or other coverage?
Direct Primary Care can complement health insurance and other healthcare arrangements. Your DPC membership provides access to the primary care services included in your membership, while separate coverage or other arrangements can help address expenses outside that membership, such as specialist care, advanced testing, and hospitalizations.
The right combination depends on your healthcare needs, budget, and existing coverage. Through HealthPass, members can also explore a broader approach that combines preventive health and wellness options with a cooperative approach to larger medical expenses.
What Services Are Covered?
Vital Edge Health (VEH) covers Primary Care Services, Acute Care Visits, Annual Wellness Exams and several other services, also some procedures and labs. Some clinics offer additional services within the membership. Please read through our ‘For Patients’ section on this website for more detailed information.
Will I have to pay extra to see my doctor?
No. Your membership includes office visits, so there are no copays for covered visits. If you need a service that isn’t included in your membership, your doctor will explain any additional costs before proceeding. As a member, you may also receive discounted rates on services that fall outside your membership.
What if I Have To Go To A Hospital? Am I Covered?
Your Direct Primary Care membership includes acute care visits with your physician, but it does not cover hospital stays or other major medical expenses. We recommend having separate coverage or another arrangement in place to help manage these costs.
For those looking for a broader healthcare solution, HealthPass combines preventive care and wellness options with a cooperative approach to cover larger medical expenses. This could be an option to explore as you plan for your healthcare needs beyond primary care.
