Joining a DPC practice is more like choosing a long-term partner than picking a provider from a network list. The relationship matters. Here's how to evaluate any DPC clinic before you commit.
Why Choosing a DPC Doctor Is Different
With traditional insurance, your primary care choice is constrained by your network. With DPC, you're paying directly, which means you have complete freedom—and complete responsibility—to choose well. The good news: most DPC practices offer a free meet-and-greet call or visit before you sign up.
10 Questions to Ask Before You Join
- What is your panel size? — Smaller panels (under 600 patients) mean more time for you. Ask how many patients they currently have and what their target is.
- How do patients communicate with you? — Direct text? App? Phone? Email? Know exactly how you'll reach your doctor and what the typical response time is.
- What are your after-hours policies? — Can you text or call if something happens at 10pm on a Saturday? Is there a backup physician?
- Is telehealth included? — Most DPC practices include video visits in the membership. Confirm this and ask how scheduling works.
- What labs and imaging are available? — Many DPC practices offer in-house phlebotomy and wholesale lab pricing. Ask for a sample lab price list.
- What does the contract look like? — Month-to-month or annual? What's the cancellation policy? Are there any enrollment fees?
- How do you handle specialist referrals? — Do they have relationships with specialists who offer direct-pay pricing? How do they coordinate your care?
- Do you have hospital privileges? — If you're hospitalized, can your DPC doctor follow your care? Or will you be handed off entirely to hospitalists?
- Do you offer a meet-and-greet? — A good DPC practice will offer a free initial call or visit before you sign up. This is a green flag.
- Is your pricing truly transparent? — Ask for the complete fee schedule. What's included in the membership vs. billed separately? Any add-ons?
Red Flags to Watch For
- Vague answers about panel size or response times
- No published pricing or reluctance to share a fee schedule
- Annual-only contracts with no flexibility
- A physician who seems overwhelmed or stretched thin
- No process described for after-hours or urgent needs
How to Use DPCPassport to Compare Clinics
DPCPassport lists 2,500+ verified DPC clinics with published pricing, location, specialties, and direct contact links. Use the search to filter by specialty, price range, and location. Many listings include direct booking links or lead forms so you can start the conversation right away.