A rare and chronic condition, Addison's disease occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce enough cortisol and aldosterone. As well as regulating the body's response to stress, blood pressure, blood sugar, salt and potassium balance, and many other functions, these hormones are essential. In addition to fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure, salt cravings, darkening of the skin, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and depression, Addison's disease can cause other symptoms. Untreated Addison's disease can cause a life-threatening condition known as Addisonian crisis, which requires immediate medical attention.
For people with Addison's disease, direct primary care (DPC) is an alternative model of health care that may provide a better solution. In exchange for a monthly or annual fee, primary care physicians can provide their services directly to patients through a DPC business model, which does not involve an insurance company. Among the services included in this fee are consultations, exams, care coordination, and comprehensive care management. Additionally, some DPCs offer discounted lab tests, medications, and behavioral health counseling.
In addition to giving you more access to your primary care physician, DPC can also help you manage Addison's disease in several ways. In addition to being able to schedule appointments same-day or next-day, you can contact your doctor anytime via phone, email, or video chat. Each visit usually lasts between 30 and 60 minutes, compared to 12 to 15 minutes in a traditional clinic. By doing so, your doctor can get to know you better, understand your goals and challenges, and provide you with personalized and holistic care.
Secondly, DPC can help you save money on your health care expenses. Since you pay a flat fee for primary care services, you won't have to pay deductibles and copays. Additionally, there is no need to deal with insurance paperwork or billing hassles. In addition, some DPC practices offer discounts on lab tests, medications, and other services that may be required for the treatment of Addison's disease. Some DPC practices offer blood tests for cortisol and aldosterone levels at low prices, while others prescribe hydrocortisone and fludrocortisone at wholesale prices for patients with Addison's disease.
Additionally, DPC can help you coordinate your treatment with other providers and resources. Some DPC practices, for example, have behavioral health counselors on staff or on call who can provide counseling sessions for depression or anxiety related to Addison’s. Additionally, some DPC practices work with local endocrinologists and specialists who can provide additional assistance if necessary. To ensure that you receive the best care possible, your DPC doctor can refer you to these resources.
When you choose DPC for Addison's disease management, you can enjoy several benefits that can improve your health and well-being.
In addition to treating Addison’s disease, your DPC doctor can also address any other health problems that you may have, providing you with more comprehensive and preventive care. Additionally, your DPC doctor can monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as necessary.
Getting an appointment with a DPC doctor is convenient. You don't have to travel long distances or wait weeks for an appointment, nor do you have to fill out forms or deal with insurance companies.
Your DPC doctor can treat you with respect and compassion, and you can feel empowered and motivated to take charge of your health.
By paying a flat fee for unlimited primary care services, you can save money on other services you may need for your Addison's disease treatment.
Here are some steps you can take if you are interested in joining a DPC practice:
DPC practices near you: You can search online for DPC practices in your area or ask your friends or family for recommendations. For a list of DPC practices across the country, you can also visit the websites of the American Academy of Family Physicians, the Direct Primary Care Coalition, or the DPC Alliance.
You can compare DPC practices based on their fees, services, providers, locations, hours, availability, and reviews. You can also contact them directly to ask questions or request a consultation.
A DPC practice can provide the services and support that you need to manage your Addison's disease, depending on your needs. You can also check if the DPC practice is compatible with your existing health insurance plan or if you need to purchase a high-deductible wraparound policy to cover emergencies and other services that are not included in the DPC membership.
Fill out an enrollment form and pay the monthly or annual fee to become a DPC member. You can also cancel your membership at any time.
Start your Addison’s disease management with your DPC doctor: During your initial visit, you can discuss your medical history, current condition, goals, and expectations with your DPC doctor as part of your Addison’s disease management. Your DPC doctor can then create a customized treatment plan for you, which may include medications, counseling, referrals, and follow-ups.
In Thomas Edison's words, "The doctor of the future will not give medicine, but will focus on the care of the human frame, on diet, and on the causes and prevention of diseases." Selecting DPC to manage your Addison's disease will give you a more patient-centered and proactive approach to health care.
