What's Happening?
A recent study published in Health Affairs highlights a significant increase in concierge and direct primary care practices in the United States from 2018 to 2023. The number of these practices grew by 83%, with clinician participation rising by 78%.
These models, which offer more personalized care and smaller patient panels, have become attractive alternatives for physicians dissatisfied with traditional primary care settings. The study also notes a dramatic shift in ownership, with independently owned practices dropping from 84% to 60%, while corporate-affiliated practices surged by 576%. This shift raises concerns about the potential impact on the workforce and access to care, as corporate ownership could alter the elements that attract clinicians to these models.
Why It's Important?
The growth of concierge and direct primary care models reflects a broader trend in healthcare towards personalized and patient-centered care. This shift is driven by physician dissatisfaction with traditional models, which are often burdened by administrative tasks and low reimbursement rates. The rise in corporate ownership, however, could undermine the independence that initially attracted many clinicians to these models. This development has significant implications for the future of primary care in the U.S., particularly as the country faces a projected shortage of up to 86,000 primary care doctors by 2036. The expansion of these models could influence healthcare policy, especially with provisions like those in President Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which aims to increase access to primary care through Health Savings Accounts.
What's Next?
As concierge and direct primary care models continue to expand, further research is needed to inform policy decisions. The study suggests that more evidence is required to understand the long-term effects of these models on healthcare access and quality. Additionally, some states have enacted laws to regulate direct primary care, indicating a growing interest in shaping the future of these practices. Policymakers and healthcare stakeholders will need to balance the benefits of personalized care with the challenges posed by increasing corporate ownership. The ongoing evolution of these models will likely influence the broader healthcare landscape, potentially affecting how primary care is delivered and accessed across the country.
