A small tear in the anus lining causes pain and bleeding during and after bowel movements. Despite the fact that most anal fissures heal on their own with simple home remedies, some may become chronic and require medical treatment. They can be caused by constipation, diarrhea, childbirth, or anal interaction.
A direct primary care model (DPC) enables patients to get primary care services directly from their physicians without the involvement of insurance companies or third parties. In a DPC practice, patients pay a monthly or annual fee for unlimited consultations, exams, care coordination, and laboratory services. The doctors at DPC practices do not accept insurance, but they recommend that their patients have high-deductible health plans to cover emergencies and specialized care.
The following are some of the benefits of joining a DPC practice if you have an anal fissure:
You can have more time and attention from your physician. DPC practices typically have fewer patients than traditional practices, so your physician can spend more time with you during each visit. If you need to speak with your doctor by phone, email, or video chat, you can do so. You can discuss your symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and prevention strategies.
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. Your DPC practice can also offer discounts on medications, labs, imaging, and supplements.
DPC practices offer a holistic approach to health care that focuses on your individual needs and preferences. You can get customized anal fissure management. Your physician can tailor your treatment plan based on your medical history, lifestyle, goals, and values. You may also be referred to a specialist or surgeon if necessary.
Your anal fissure condition can benefit from joining a DPC practice in the following ways:
The DPC practices can provide you with prompt and effective treatment for your anal fissure, such as topical creams, ointments, injections, or surgery, to speed up healing and recovery. Additionally, stool softeners, fiber supplements, sitz baths, or dietary advice can be used to prevent complications or recurrences.
The DPC can help you reduce the pain and discomfort caused by your anal fissures, as well as improve your emotional well-being by establishing a supportive and trusting relationship with your physician. As Benjamin Franklin said, "The best doctor gives the fewest medicines."
DPC practices can help you address the underlying causes of your anal fissure, such as chronic constipation or inflammation, and improve your overall health. Diabetes, hypertension, and obesity can also be treated comprehensively. "It is more important to know what kind of person has a disease than to know what kind of disease a person has," Hippocrates said.
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 for recommendations from friends or family members who have joined one.
Compare the fees and services offered by different DPC practices. You can check their websites or call them to find out their monthly or annual fees, what services are included or excluded, what discounts they offer on medications or labs, and what their policies are on referrals or cancellations.
Schedule an initial consultation with your chosen DPC practice. You can meet with your physician and discuss your medical history, current symptoms, treatment goals, and expectations. You can also ask any questions you have about the DPC model and how it works.
Sign up for a membership and start receiving care. 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 need them and contact your physician anytime you have a concern.
