The lungs, pancreas, and other organs are affected by cystic fibrosis (CF), a genetic disorder. CF is a lifelong condition that requires daily care and frequent medical visits. It causes thick and sticky mucus to build up in the airways and digestive system, causing chronic infections, malnutrition, and organ damage. However, people with CF often have trouble accessing affordable, quality health care, especially in traditional fee-for-service models.
Using direct primary care (DPC), primary care physicians are able to provide services directly to their patients without having to deal with insurance companies or third parties. Primary care services include consultations, exams, lab tests, and care coordination for a monthly or annual fee. As DPC practices typically have fewer patients and more time for each visit, they provide more personalized and comprehensive care.
CF patients can benefit from DPC in several ways, including:
Reduced out-of-pocket costs since you don't have to pay copays, deductibles, or coinsurance. You don't have to worry about prior authorizations or insurance company denials.
There is greater access to telehealth services, such as phone calls, emails, or video chats with your physician. This can save you a lot of time and hassle, especially if you live far from the clinic or have mobility problems.
Coordinated care with your specialists, such as pulmonologists, gastroenterologists, endocrinologists, and geneticists. Your DPC physician can communicate with them regularly and share your medical records electronically.
A higher quality of life and improved health outcomes, since proactive and preventive care can help prevent complications and hospitalizations.
People with CF can benefit from DPC in the following ways:
You can have a closer relationship with your primary care physician, who can get to know you better and understand your needs and preferences.
A DPC physician will address not only your physical issues, but also your mental and emotional well-being, as well as nutrition, exercise, stress management, and quitting smoking.
In addition to having more input and control over your treatment options, you can also select the DPC practice that best suits your needs and values.
Your DPC physician can provide you with more convenience, flexibility, transparency, and respect.
Personalized treatment plans based on your genotype, phenotype, comorbidities, allergies, and goals.
Providing access to new therapies and technologies not covered by insurance.
Monitoring your disease progression and treatment response through regular lung function tests and blood work.
Prescription of antibiotics and other medications appropriate for your specific infection.
You can prevent deficiencies by taking dietary supplements and enzyme replacements.
You can learn airway clearance techniques and breathing exercises from physical therapists and respiratory therapists.
Helping you cope with the emotional and social aspects of living with CF by connecting you with support groups and resources.
For people with CF, finding a health care model that works for them can make a huge difference in their lives, as Mark Twain once said, “The secret to success is making your vocation your vacation.” It is possible to receive more personalized, comprehensive, and affordable primary care through a DPC.
Previous Post
Next Post
