A form of inflammatory arthritis that affects the spine and other joints, ankylosing spondylitis causes back, neck, hip, shoulder, and knee pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It can also affect other organs such as the eyes, skin, heart, and lungs. It usually starts in early adulthood and affects more men than women. It is unclear what causes ankylosing spondylitis, but it is thought that genetics and environmental factors are involved.
In direct primary care (DPC), patients can receive primary care directly from their physicians, without having to deal with insurance companies or third party payers. DPC practices charge patients a monthly or annual fee for unlimited consultations, exams, care coordination, and some lab services. For emergencies and specialized care, DPC practices recommend that patients have a high-deductible health plan.
You may benefit from joining a DPC practice if you have ankylosing spondylitis or are at risk of developing it.
Your physician can spend more time with you during your visit. DPC practices typically have fewer patients than traditional practices, which means that your physician can devote more time to you. Your physician can discuss your symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and prevention strategies in detail. You can also contact your physician by phone, email, or video chat, whenever you need.
You can save money and avoid hassle. DPC practices charge a flat fee that covers all your primary care needs, without any copays or deductibles. You do not need to worry about insurance claims, billing codes, or prior authorizations. As part of your DPC practice, you may also receive discounts on medications, labs, imaging, and supplements.
Personalized ankylosing spondylitis management is possible with DPC practices. A DPC practice offers a holistic approach to health care that considers your individual needs and preferences. In addition to tailoring your treatment plan to your medical history, lifestyle, goals, and values, your doctor can also refer you to specialists or surgeons if needed.
Your ankylosing spondylitis condition can benefit from joining a DPC practice in the following ways:
With the help of DPC practices, you can receive prompt and effective treatment for ankylosing spondylitis, such as anti-inflammatory drugs, painkillers, biologics, or surgery. Physical therapy, exercises, or posture correction can also be used to prevent recurrences and complications.
You can improve your quality of life by using DPC practices to relieve the pain and discomfort caused by your ankylosing spondylitis. You can also improve your emotional well-being by building a supportive and trusting relationship with your physician. As William Osler said, "A good physician treats the disease; a great physician treats the patient."
Enhanced overall health. DPC practices can help you address the underlying causes of your ankylosing spondylitis, such as genetic predisposition or environmental triggers. Additionally, you can get comprehensive care if you suffer from diabetes, hypertension, or depression.
Here are some steps you can take if you are interested in joining a DPC practice:
Find a DPC practice near you. You can search online for DPC practices in your area or ask friends or family who have already joined one.
Different DPC practices offer different services and fees. You can check their websites or call them to find out what their monthly or annual fees are, what services are included or excluded, what discounts they offer on medications or labs, and what referral or cancellation policies they have.
Schedule an initial consultation with your chosen DPC practice. Your physician will discuss your medical history, current symptoms, treatment goals, and expectations. You can also ask any questions you have about the DPC model.
You can pay your fee online or in person and get access to all the benefits of DPC. You can schedule appointments as often as you like and contact your physician at any time.
