Concierge Medicine vs. Direct Primary Care vs. VIP Medicine: What’s the Difference?

Frustrated with rushed, impersonal doctor visits? You’re not alone.

If you're like most people, you’ve probably sat through seven-minute appointments, long wait times, and left feeling like just another name on a list.

You're now exploring alternatives to traditional primary care, but with terms like concierge medicine, direct pay, and VIP care floating around, what do they all mean? Which one is right for you?

At PartnerMD, we’ve provided concierge medicine for over 20 years, and we talk to patients every day who are navigating these options.

In this article, we’ll explain the key differences between concierge medicine, direct pay primary care, and VIP medicine. You’ll learn about costs, insurance involvement, and which model fits best with your healthcare goals.

Traditional Primary Care: The Fast-Paced System You Already Know

In traditional care, speed and volume take priority over personal attention.

Most primary care physicians manage over 2,000 patients and may see 20 to 30 per day. That leaves just minutes for each visit.

While this system works for basic needs, it often leaves patients feeling rushed, unheard, and frustrated. This is especially true for those seeking more proactive and relationship-based care.

What Is Concierge Medicine? Definition, Cost, and How It Works

Concierge medicine reduces the number of patients each doctor sees, creating time for more personalized visits. These practices often limit panels to 400 to 600 patients, giving doctors the space to focus on each person more thoroughly.

What’s included in concierge care:

• Same or next-day appointments

• Little to no waiting at the office

• Extended visits (30 to 60 minutes or more)

• 24/7 access to physician care

Concierge medicine costs:
Concierge medicine patients pay a membership fee, typically between $2,000 and $5,000 per year. Most concierge doctors still accept insurance for services covered by your plan.

How Direct Primary Care Works (No Insurance Required)

Direct primary care, or DPC, removes insurance from the healthcare equation and simplifies the process. Common models include:

• Membership-only: Flat monthly fee that may include labs and comprehensive care

• Fee-for-service only: Pay only when you need a visit

• Hybrid: Combines both approaches

Because there is no insurance billing, doctors in this model spend more time with fewer patients and avoid the administrative burden.

Costs:
Generally lower than concierge care. However, since insurance is not accepted, many patients choose to carry catastrophic insurance for emergencies.

What Is VIP Medicine? Luxury Care for the Few

VIP, or luxury medicine, offers the highest level of exclusivity and access in personalized care. Doctors in this model may serve just a few patients or even a single individual. This allows for:

• 24/7 physician access

• Private hospital accommodations

• Travel medicine and home visits

• Direct coordination with specialists

Costs:
Typically $10,000 or more per year. This model is often preferred by high-net-worth individuals who prioritize convenience, privacy, and elite care.

Comparison Chart: Concierge Medicine, Direct Primary Care, and VIP Care

To help you sort through your options, here’s a side-by-side look at the key features of each care model:

Still Deciding? Ask These Three Questions First

If you're confused by overlapping terminology or hybrid practices, start with these questions:

1. Do you accept insurance?
   If not, it's likely a direct primary care practice.

2. Do you charge a membership fee?
   If yes, it may be concierge, direct primary care, or VIP.

3. How much is the membership fee?
   If it’s between $2,000 and $5,000, it’s probably concierge or direct primary care.
   If it’s over $10,000, you are likely looking at VIP medicine.

What’s Next? Learn More About Concierge Medicine

At the end of the day, most people just want a doctor who listens, has time for them, and helps them stay healthy. Concierge care is designed to provide just that.

Now that you understand the differences between these models, your next step is to download our free guide, “Understanding Concierge Medicine.”

We’re PartnerMD. We’ve helped thousands of patients find peace of mind in their healthcare, and we’re here to help you decide if concierge care is the right fit.