FAQs

What is direct primary care (DPC)?

Direct Primary Care (DPC) is an innovative healthcare model where physicians partner with their patients to provide primary care services under a flat, periodic membership fee. By moving outside of the administrative burdens of the traditional insurance-based billing system, DPC practices are able to provide a wide spectrum of care in a transparent, affordable manner. DPC practices—now a grassroots movement numbering over 1000 nationwide—are able to do this while offering patients a higher level of service, communication, and relationship, than what is often found in our dysfunctional healthcare system.

Learn more about DPC:  https://dpcnation.org

What does the monthly membership cover?

The monthly membership covers excellent primary care by providing open access to our services. We offer in-office visits, Telehealth (virtual visits), you can call, text or email when you need us. Membership includes your annual wellness exam, sick visits, follow-up visits, and basic office procedures. Members also have access to at-cost laboratory testing, at-cost imaging services, as well as whole-sale medications.

Does Dr. Whatley see patients of all ages?

Yes! As a Family Medicine Physician, Dr. Whatley provides care for patients of all ages and stages.

Is there a sign-up fee?

Yes there is a one-time membership registration fee of $100. This is non-refundable.  Max registration fee is $200 for families.

What if I decide to cancel my membership?

We understand that your needs may change, and we want to help you through whatever transitions you’re making. If you need to cancel, we would appreciate a 30 day notice. There are no membership contract obligations, you can cancel at any time.

Do you take my insurance?

No, we do not take any insurance and will not directly bill any insurance company.  This is what allows us the freedom to be unique and more personal.  Insurance is still needed for the services outside of the scope of our primary care practice however.  Check with your tax expert or human resources department regarding the use of health savings accounts or flexible spending accounts. There are a number of different types of health plans out there and direct primary care practices can combine well with them to allow for improved patient care.

Do you take Medicare/Medicaid?

No, Medicare patients will have to sign a waiver every 2 years declaring that neither you nor your doctor will directly bill Medicare for our services.  Although we do not bill Medicare you are still able to utilize your Medicare coverage for all other medical care received outside our practice as well as tests, labs and medications ordered by our office.

Why don’t you take insurance?

Not taking insurance allows us to concentrate on you, the patient.  In direct primary care, patients and physicians are not subjected to the inefficient demands of insurance companies.  Without the administrative burdens and invasive requirements, we are able to save time and money, and therefore, keep our patient panel to a much more manageable size of 600-700, versus 2000-3000 in insurance-based practices.  By eliminating needless clerical chores, we are able to spend visit time on what you actually came to discuss – giving you a truly personalized experience.  We are also able to offer extended visit time and more availability via technology.   We want you to feel like a part of our family and not a number/commodity.  By not taking insurance, we are able to offer you more care at a lower price, including access to labs and commonly prescribed medications at greatly reduced prices.

If I don’t have any insurance can I join your practice?

Although we do encourage everyone to have some coverage for catastrophic events as long as you pay the monthly membership fee you can join our practice.  Just to be clear though we are not an insurance program/company.

Will you limit your practice size?

Yes, we will limit the practice to about 400-600 patients so that we are able to provide a comprehensive personalized patient experience.  If we have more people sign up we will start a waiting list and as openings become available we will contact you regarding membership.  If demand is high enough we may make plans to add a physician and expand.

What if I am hospitalized?

If you are hospitalized, we will work closely with your hospital team and arrange for quick follow up after you are discharged from the hospital to allow for a seamless transition and most importantly to prevent you from returning to the hospital.  Your membership to Health and Healing DPC does not include services by any other doctors or hospitals, and those costs would have to be paid by you or your insurance company.

Are my medical records ever shared with insurance carriers or government agencies?

No. Patient privacy is a natural benefit of this medical model. We will never provide any third party with a copy of your records, unless you specifically ask us to do so or if Elevated Health is subject to subpoena or search warrant.

What if I need medical attention while I’m away from home?

In the age of telemedicine, many conditions can be diagnosed and treated via a simple conversation by phone or webcam. If appropriate, we will locate the nearest pharmacy and order medication most suited for your circumstance. If you need to go to the hospital or seek other medical attention while away from home, we can advise you on that as well.

When do I pay my fees for non-covered labs, imaging and procedures?

Charges will be added and applied to your preferred method of payment. Transparency is our mission so we will always let you know what you’re being charged for.

What Is a Life Coach?

Who Should Consider Working With a Life Coach?

Everyone! Dr. Whatley’s focus is health and wellness with an emphasis on weight loss goals. Many people seek out life coaches for guidance in navigating a significant life change, such as taking on a new career. In plenty of cases, however, people turn to life coaches simply for help in building a happier, more meaningful life.

Difference Between a Life Coach and a Therapist

How much does coaching cost?

Coaching prices will vary. Apply to work with Dr. Whatley and schedule a discovery call. You can discuss your goals and decide together if working together is a good fit. Pricing and plans will be discussed at your discovery call.