The condition hydrocephalus occurs when there is an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain, which increases pressure and damages the brain. While hydrocephalus can affect people of all ages, infants and older adults are more likely to suffer from it. There are a variety of symptoms associated with hydrocephalus, including headaches, nausea, vision problems, cognitive impairments, balance problems, and urinary incontinence. An individual suffering from hydrocephalus must undergo lifelong treatment, usually involving surgery to insert a shunt, which drains excess fluid from the brain. In addition to additional surgeries and complications, shunts can malfunction or get infected. A procedure called endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) can also be used to treat hydrocephalus, which creates a new pathway for the CSF to leave the brain. However, ETV may not be suitable for all cases of hydrocephalus and may not be effective for a long time.
Direct primary care (DPC) is a model of health care delivery that allows patients to have direct access to their primary care provider, without involving insurance companies or third-party payers. Patients pay a monthly, quarterly, or annual fee to their DPC provider, which covers all or most of their primary care services, such as consultations, exams, care coordination, and some lab tests. DPC providers typically have fewer patients than traditional primary care providers, which allows them to spend more time with each patient and offer more personalized and comprehensive care. DPC providers also use technology, such as phone calls, emails, or video chats, to communicate with their patients and provide convenient and timely access to care.
DPC can offer several benefits for patients with hydrocephalus, such as:
Having more time to understand your condition, symptoms, and treatment options allows DPC providers to monitor and manage your hydrocephalus more closely and effectively. Additionally, they can help you navigate the complex health care system and coordinate your care with other specialists, such as neurologists, neurosurgeons, or physical therapists. Additionally, DPC providers can help you and your family learn about hydrocephalus and take an active role in your health care.
DPC can reduce your health care expenses because you do not have to pay copays, deductibles, or coinsurance. As well as reducing your stress and hassle, you won't have to deal with insurance claims, denials, or prior authorizations. Your DPC provider can also provide most of your primary care needs in-house or through their network of preferred providers, ensuring that you avoid unnecessary tests, procedures, or referrals. Hydrocephalus complications, such as shunt infections or failures, can also be prevented or reduced with DPC.
As a result of having a more personal and long-term relationship with your primary care provider, DPC can improve your satisfaction and trust. You can also enjoy more convenience and flexibility in scheduling your appointments, accessing your provider, and receiving your care. Additionally, you'll know exactly what you're paying for and what you're getting when it comes to your health care costs, which gives you more control and transparency.
You can find a direct primary care provider near you by visiting the Direct Primary Care Coalition or the American Academy of Family Physicians if you have hydrocephalus and are interested in DPC. If your current primary care provider does not offer DPC or if they would be willing to switch, ask them about their fees, services, policies, and expectations before enrolling in a DPC practice. A major medical health insurance plan or a health care sharing ministry will also cover your non-primary care needs, such as hospitalizations, surgeries, or emergencies. DPC is not a substitute for health insurance, but rather a complement.
Hydrocephalus is a challenging and chronic condition that requires ongoing and attentive care. DPC can provide you with a better way to manage your hydrocephalus and improve your quality of life.
As Benjamin Franklin said,
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
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