Question 1

Why choose Direct Primary Care?

Accepted Answer

The main benefits of DPC are accessibility and relationship. Not only are you guaranteed same-day or next-day appointments, but you will also have direct access to your provider through our HIPAA secured Spruce messaging app. Unlike most primary care providers, the patient panels in DPC are small which means we can spend all the time we need with you. We care about you and all of your questions and concerns and will make sure you feel heard and well taken care of.

Question 2

Is Alps Health a concierge practice?

Accepted Answer

No, Alps Health is a direct primary care practice. Though the two models are similar, direct primary care is focused on being more affordable and accessible for as many as possible. Also unlike concierge services, we do not bill your insurance for these services as your membership fee covers our costs for your care.

Question 3

How do I sign up for a DPC membership?

Accepted Answer

To sign up for a membership, simply get in touch with our team! We’ll guide you through the process and help you choose the best option for your needs.

Question 4

What does a DPC membership cover?

Accepted Answer

All primary care and urgent care visits, access to your provider through the HIPAA secure messaging app, point of care testing for acute needs, 180+ medications at Alps pharmacy and much more.

Question 5

Do you accept children as patients?

Accepted Answer

Alps Health DPC accepts any patient 5 or older. Our Direct Primary Care plan has pricing for individuals with children and whole families.

Question 6

What is on the free medication list?

Accepted Answer

The medications on the free medication list are updated quarterly and are oftentimes subject to change. Please contact the clinic for questions about your medication(s).

Question 7

Will you take my insurance?

Accepted Answer

The DPC model is different in that it DOES NOT utilize insurance. The benefits of a membership are in lieu of insurance. If you want us to file insurance, we can, however you will not have the additional benefits of a membership (same and next day appointments, low cost labs, free medications at the pharmacy).

WE CANNOT ACCEPT MEDICARE DUE TO GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS.

Question 8

Can I use HSA or FSA money for my visits?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Alps Health accepts HSA and FSA funds as a form or payment for your visits. It is your responsibility to make sure that your funds are being used in accordance with IRS guidelines.

Question 9

Can I use my insurance to pay for labs or imaging?

Accepted Answer

If you have a membership, the low cost labs are a benefit of that membership. If you wish to bill your insurance for those, they will be billed according to the "usual and customary" charges set by Quest diagnostics and you may be responsible for higher prices.

If imaging is ordered outside of Alps Health DPC you CAN use insurance for these things. We have special contracted prices for many imaging tests and these are based on cash pay. Again, if you choose to use your insurance, they will be billed according to the agreements made by the imaging company and the insurance and you might be billed for higher costs.

Question 10

How much do labs cost?

Accepted Answer

Common Lab Pricing: Complete Metabolic Panel (CMP): $4.00Complete Blood Count (CBC) : $3.00Lipid panel (Triglycerides, HDL, LDL): $4.00A1C: $3.00 Thyroid panel (TSH, T3, T4): $15.00Customized HRT and peptide panels range from $75-$300 under provider discretion. Primary care labs are done at the clinic and have a lab draw fee of $10. Contact us for further details about added supply cost.*All lab prices are subject to variability based on current lab pricing, costs subject to change based on assessment and provider discretion.

Question 11

What if I need surgery, a specialist, or a hospital visit?

Accepted Answer

The provider at Alps Health DPC is able to make referrals to any specialists locally or out of state. We recommend having an insurance plan for emergency care, hospitalizations, and specialty care if needed. Alps Health pairs well with high deductible health plans as higher-dollar visits like emergency care are where to use your insurance.

Question 12

Is the provider available after hours and on weekends?

Accepted Answer

Our members can often take advantage of same-day and next-day appointments during our regular business hours. Members can text or email non-urgent questions after hours, and we will answer them the next business day.

All members are provided access to the HIPAA secure Spruce messaging app where you can message your provider directly. Urgent messages will be responded to as deemed appropriate by the provider. If at any time you feel like you are having a medical emergency it is recommended you call 911 or go to your local Emergency room.

We recommend having an insurance plan for emergency care, hospitalizations, and specialty care so you are covered if needed.

Question 13

Do you manage chronic pain?

Accepted Answer

NO we do not treat pain and do not prescribe pain medications.

Question 14

What is the commitment for a DPC membership?

Accepted Answer

Both the Unlimited and Virtual plans require a 3-month commitment. We offer walk-in visits as well that do not require a commitment.

Question 15

Should I join a plan if I'm healthy?

Accepted Answer

Our goal is to provide affordable healthcare with a focus on long-term health and wellness—and everyone can benefit from that approach!

Question 16

Can I rejoin a plan if I cancel my membership?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can rejoin at any time. We can always place your membership on hold if necessary.

Question 17

How do I cancel my membership?

Accepted Answer

Not loving the plan you're on? You can easily cancel your membership by emailing us. We require a 30-day notice for plan cancellation.

Question 18

What if I need a hospital visit?

Accepted Answer

Alps Insurance Group offers coverage options. If interested, reach out to learn more. (417) 353-9399.

Frequently asked questions