FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Concierge Direct Primary Care?
Concierge Direct Primary Care (DPC) is a healthcare model where primary care doctors provide care through a simple membership, bypassing the traditional fee-for-service system. This reduces wait times and offers more personalized care, both in-person and online, without copays or office visit charges. We don’t bill insurance for visits and instead offer a transparent monthly fee. Patients can still use insurance for labs, imaging, and referrals while we focus on delivering accessible, comprehensive care directly.
With Unique Health Now, you get quick access to same-day or next-day appointments, longer visits for better health focus, and easy communication via phone, text, or secure messaging. The membership often covers routine check-ups, lab tests, and minor procedures, ensuring a more personalized healthcare experience. We can also provide reduced cash rates for imaging, labs and medications allowing you to choose the best option for your needs.
What is Osteopathic Medicine, and what is a DO?
A Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) is a fully licensed physician who practices in all specialties of medicine, just like an MD. DOs complete medical school with a focus on osteopathic principles, emphasizing a holistic approach to patient care that considers the whole person rather than just symptoms. They receive comprehensive training in all aspects of medicine, including diagnosis, treatment, and surgery, and they also have specialized training in the musculoskeletal system. This allows DOs to use Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT), a hands-on approach to diagnose, treat, and prevent conditions while enhancing the body’s natural ability to heal. Additionally, DOs focus on preventive medicine and consider how lifestyle and environment impact health. Whether MD or DO, Unique Health Now is committed to providing holistic, hospitality-forward care that promotes overall health and wellness.
Are you board-certified physician?
Yes, I am fully licensed through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) and board certified by the National Board of Physicians and Surgeons (NBPAS) and the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM).
Are you associated with any health systems?
No. Within most health systems there’s a lot of pressure from pcps to keep patients “in the System.” So we may refer you to Surgeon A because that surgeon is in their health system, even though Surgeon B outside the system is the expert on treating that condition. Because I don’t have affiliations, I am free to make a tailored recommendation for the perfect specialist when needed.
Is this the same thing as health insurance?
No, our membership is not the same as health insurance. While our model provides comprehensive primary care services, it does not replace health insurance. Our membership covers your routine healthcare needs, such as check-ups and preventive care, without copays or billing insurance. We recommend having health insurance to cover more expensive medical needs, like emergencies, hospitalizations, or specialized treatments. In essence, our membership complements health insurance by focusing on accessible primary care.
Do you take insurance?
We do not accept insurance or bill insurance companies for our services. Instead, we operate on a membership model that provides transparent pricing for primary care. This allows us to focus on delivering high-quality, personalized care without the complexities of insurance billing. While we recommend having insurance for emergencies and other specialized needs, our membership gives you direct access to care without the hassle of copays or unexpected costs. You can still use insurance for other medical services, such as labs, imaging, and medications.
What if I don't have insurance?
If you don’t have insurance, you can still become a member with us! Our membership is designed to provide accessible and affordable primary care without the need for insurance. We focus on transparency in pricing, so you’ll know exactly what to expect for your healthcare costs. While we recommend having insurance for emergencies and other healthcare needs, it’s not a requirement for membership. Additionally, we partner directly with vendors to offer exclusive pricing on labs and services, ensuring you receive high-quality care at an affordable rate. Our goal is to make healthcare accessible and straightforward for everyone, regardless of insurance status.
Do you see Medicare Patient?
The short answer: Yes, just not yet. Join our email list to be informed when we start seeing Medicare patients!
The long answer:
When a doctor opts out of Medicare, it means they don’t bill Medicare for services; instead, patients pay directly. This decision is necessary because Medicare has strict regulations regarding concriege practices that limit our ability to provide the best possible care. After opting out, there’s a required waiting period before the doctor can start seeing Medicare patients privately. This time is needed to process paperwork, comply with Medicare rules, and set up new patient-doctor agreements.
Once everything is in place, patients with Medicare can see us under a private agreement that clearly explains how our practice works. This means that while we won’t bill Medicare for our monthly membership, patients can still use Medicare for medications, specialists, hospital visits, emergencies, labs, imaging, and more. This simple and direct relationship allows us to focus on delivering high-quality care without the complications of insurance.
Why the monthly membership fee?
The monthly membership fee allows us to provide a unique healthcare experience that prioritizes your needs. By charging a flat fee, we can offer a range of services without the complications of insurance billing or copays. This model ensures that you have access to timely appointments, longer visits, and direct communication with your healthcare provider, all while keeping pricing transparent. The membership fee also supports our ability to negotiate exclusive pricing for labs and other services, helping you save on healthcare costs. Ultimately, the fee enables us to focus on delivering high-quality, personalized care that is both accessible and affordable.
I don't go to the doctor that often. Why would I need a membership?
Even if you don’t visit the doctor frequently, our membership still provides significant benefits. It grants you access to personalized care whenever you need it, ensuring you have a healthcare partner ready to support your health aspirations. You’ll enjoy preventive services, routine check-ups, and quick access to your doctor—all without the hassle of copays or insurance complications. Plus, our membership offers virtual visits and easy communication, allowing you to address health concerns promptly and without the stress of traditional appointments. Think of it as having a dedicated healthcare resource to promote your overall wellness, even when you’re feeling healthy.
In a world where Dr. Google can create unnecessary anxiety, it’s crucial to have a trusted doctor in your corner—someone who knows you and can take the time to help find the best solutions for your needs. With a doctor you can reach via text, phone, email, and in-person visits, we can be proactive and address issues before they become significant problems. That surprise sinus infection or unexpected health concern can be managed earlier, resulting in less hassle and fewer trips to the emergency department—without the added stress of waiting rooms.
We understand that life can get busy, and health issues can slowly creep up on you over the years. That’s why having someone working behind the scenes to prevent disease is invaluable, allowing you to focus on the present. Our emphasis goes beyond simply treating disease; we prioritize optimizing your wellness. We know how to craft an incredible diet, build better habits, and help you achieve the best sleep of your life. Our goal is to support you in meeting both your short-term and long-term health goals.
Is there some sort of long-term commitment when I sign up?
Not at all! We love building lasting relationships with our patients, which is one of the reasons we enjoy Internal Medicine so much. However, the most important aspect of care is finding a good fit with your doctor. If you ever feel that we’re not the right match for you, just let us know. There are no tricky long-term commitments— you can unsubscribe from your membership at any time. We do require a 30-day notice for billing.
How are you getting the reduced labs and imaging prices?
We negotiate directly with lab vendors to secure exclusive pricing for our members. By cutting out the middleman and establishing direct relationships with these providers, we can offer significantly reduced rates for lab tests and services. This approach allows us to provide high-quality care at a more affordable price, ensuring our members get the best value for their healthcare needs.
Are there any copays or office visit fees in addition to the membership fee?
That’s correct! With our membership, there are no additional copays or office visit fees. Your membership fee covers all primary care services, allowing you to access timely appointments, routine check-ups, and preventive care without worrying about unexpected costs. This straightforward pricing model enables you to focus on your health without the hassles of traditional insurance billing. If there are any additional fees for specific services not covered by your membership, we will inform you beforehand.
What about charges for things in the clinic like EKGs, etc.?
In the current medical culture, hidden pricing can be exorbitant, but we believe in transparency. We want our patients to know upfront how much things will cost. For procedures performed in the office, any nominal fee (usually around $5 to $10) is intended to cover the cost of materials, such as syringes or medications. The majority of these services are included in your membership at no additional charge. For instance, if you need an EKG for a medical reason, your membership already covers that.
We strive to keep all costs transparent and affordable. Before any additional services are performed, we will inform you of the costs involved, allowing you to make an informed decision. Our goal is to provide high-quality care without unexpected expenses, ensuring you always know what to expect.
Why the Name Unique Health Now?
The name ‘Unique Health Now’ reflects our commitment to providing individualized care tailored to each patient’s needs. We believe that everyone deserves a personalized approach to their health and wellness, which is why we focus on building strong relationships with our patients. The ‘Now’ in our name signifies our dedication to timely access to care, ensuring you receive the attention and services you need when you need them. Together, these elements highlight our mission to deliver exceptional, patient-centered healthcare that stands out in today’s medical landscape.
I’m ready to get started. How do I make an appointment?
Great! We’re currently accepting new members. To get started, simply click the link below or the “Sign Up” button at the top right of the page, which will take you to our registration page.
What is not included in the membership?
We currently do not provide prenatal, pregnancy, obstetrics, or pediatric care in our practice. However, we can connect you with excellent OBGYNs, pediatricians, and additional resources within our community. Additionally, we do not prescribe chronic Schedule II medications, such as opioids or amphetamines. It’s important to note that your membership does not cover services performed outside our office, including hospitalizations, surgeries, or specialist visits.
What if I get admitted to the hospital?
In the past, patients were typically seen by their primary care doctor while in the hospital. However, as hospital systems have become more regulated and complex, dedicated ‘hospitalists’—doctors who work exclusively in the hospital and do not manage an outside clinic—have become more common. Despite this shift, we ensure that your hospitalist has all the necessary information to make the best decisions for your care.
Do you accept patients with pre-existing medical conditions?
Yes! Having a pre-existing medical condition will not affect your eligibility for membership or the membership price.
What is Concierge Direct Primary Care?
Concierge Direct Primary Care (DPC) is a healthcare model where primary care doctors provide care through a simple membership, bypassing the traditional fee-for-service system. This reduces wait times and offers more personalized care, both in-person and online, without copays or office visit charges. We don’t bill insurance for visits and instead offer a transparent monthly fee. Patients can still use insurance for labs, imaging, and referrals while we focus on delivering accessible, comprehensive care directly.
With Unique Health Now, you get quick access to same-day or next-day appointments, longer visits for better health focus, and easy communication via phone, text, or secure messaging. The membership often covers routine check-ups, lab tests, and minor procedures, ensuring a more personalized healthcare experience. We can also provide reduced cash rates for imaging, labs and medications allowing you to choose the best option for your needs.
What is Osteopathic Medicine, and what is a DO?
A Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) is a fully licensed physician who practices in all specialties of medicine, just like an MD. DOs complete medical school with a focus on osteopathic principles, emphasizing a holistic approach to patient care that considers the whole person rather than just symptoms. They receive comprehensive training in all aspects of medicine, including diagnosis, treatment, and surgery, and they also have specialized training in the musculoskeletal system. This allows DOs to use Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT), a hands-on approach to diagnose, treat, and prevent conditions while enhancing the body’s natural ability to heal. Additionally, DOs focus on preventive medicine and consider how lifestyle and environment impact health. Whether MD or DO, Unique Health Now is committed to providing holistic, hospitality-forward care that promotes overall health and wellness.
Are you board-certified physician?
Yes, I am fully licensed through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) and board certified by the National Board of Physicians and Surgeons (NBPAS) and the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM).
Are you associated with any health systems?
No. Within most health systems there’s a lot of pressure from pcps to keep patients “in the System.” So we may refer you to Surgeon A because that surgeon is in their health system, even though Surgeon B outside the system is the expert on treating that condition. Because I don’t have affiliations, I am free to make a tailored recommendation for the perfect specialist when needed.
Is this the same thing as health insurance?
No, our membership is not the same as health insurance. While our model provides comprehensive primary care services, it does not replace health insurance. Our membership covers your routine healthcare needs, such as check-ups and preventive care, without copays or billing insurance. We recommend having health insurance to cover more expensive medical needs, like emergencies, hospitalizations, or specialized treatments. In essence, our membership complements health insurance by focusing on accessible primary care.
Do you take insurance?
We do not accept insurance or bill insurance companies for our services. Instead, we operate on a membership model that provides transparent pricing for primary care. This allows us to focus on delivering high-quality, personalized care without the complexities of insurance billing. While we recommend having insurance for emergencies and other specialized needs, our membership gives you direct access to care without the hassle of copays or unexpected costs. You can still use insurance for other medical services, such as labs, imaging, and medications.
What if I don't have insurance?
If you don’t have insurance, you can still become a member with us! Our membership is designed to provide accessible and affordable primary care without the need for insurance. We focus on transparency in pricing, so you’ll know exactly what to expect for your healthcare costs. While we recommend having insurance for emergencies and other healthcare needs, it’s not a requirement for membership. Additionally, we partner directly with vendors to offer exclusive pricing on labs and services, ensuring you receive high-quality care at an affordable rate. Our goal is to make healthcare accessible and straightforward for everyone, regardless of insurance status.
Do you see Medicare Patient?
The short answer: Yes, just not yet. Join our email list to be informed when we start seeing Medicare patients!
The long answer:
When a doctor opts out of Medicare, it means they don’t bill Medicare for services; instead, patients pay directly. This decision is necessary because Medicare has strict regulations regarding concriege practices that limit our ability to provide the best possible care. After opting out, there’s a required waiting period before the doctor can start seeing Medicare patients privately. This time is needed to process paperwork, comply with Medicare rules, and set up new patient-doctor agreements.
Once everything is in place, patients with Medicare can see us under a private agreement that clearly explains how our practice works. This means that while we won’t bill Medicare for our monthly membership, patients can still use Medicare for medications, specialists, hospital visits, emergencies, labs, imaging, and more. This simple and direct relationship allows us to focus on delivering high-quality care without the complications of insurance.
Why the monthly membership fee?
The monthly membership fee allows us to provide a unique healthcare experience that prioritizes your needs. By charging a flat fee, we can offer a range of services without the complications of insurance billing or copays. This model ensures that you have access to timely appointments, longer visits, and direct communication with your healthcare provider, all while keeping pricing transparent. The membership fee also supports our ability to negotiate exclusive pricing for labs and other services, helping you save on healthcare costs. Ultimately, the fee enables us to focus on delivering high-quality, personalized care that is both accessible and affordable.
I don't go to the doctor that often. Why would I need a membership?
Even if you don’t visit the doctor frequently, our membership still provides significant benefits. It grants you access to personalized care whenever you need it, ensuring you have a healthcare partner ready to support your health aspirations. You’ll enjoy preventive services, routine check-ups, and quick access to your doctor—all without the hassle of copays or insurance complications. Plus, our membership offers virtual visits and easy communication, allowing you to address health concerns promptly and without the stress of traditional appointments. Think of it as having a dedicated healthcare resource to promote your overall wellness, even when you’re feeling healthy.
In a world where Dr. Google can create unnecessary anxiety, it’s crucial to have a trusted doctor in your corner—someone who knows you and can take the time to help find the best solutions for your needs. With a doctor you can reach via text, phone, email, and in-person visits, we can be proactive and address issues before they become significant problems. That surprise sinus infection or unexpected health concern can be managed earlier, resulting in less hassle and fewer trips to the emergency department—without the added stress of waiting rooms.
We understand that life can get busy, and health issues can slowly creep up on you over the years. That’s why having someone working behind the scenes to prevent disease is invaluable, allowing you to focus on the present. Our emphasis goes beyond simply treating disease; we prioritize optimizing your wellness. We know how to craft an incredible diet, build better habits, and help you achieve the best sleep of your life. Our goal is to support you in meeting both your short-term and long-term health goals.
Is there some sort of long-term commitment when I sign up?
Not at all! We love building lasting relationships with our patients, which is one of the reasons we enjoy Internal Medicine so much. However, the most important aspect of care is finding a good fit with your doctor. If you ever feel that we’re not the right match for you, just let us know. There are no tricky long-term commitments— you can unsubscribe from your membership at any time. We do require a 30-day notice for billing.
How are you getting the reduced labs and imaging prices?
We negotiate directly with lab vendors to secure exclusive pricing for our members. By cutting out the middleman and establishing direct relationships with these providers, we can offer significantly reduced rates for lab tests and services. This approach allows us to provide high-quality care at a more affordable price, ensuring our members get the best value for their healthcare needs.
Are there any copays or office visit fees in addition to the membership fee?
That’s correct! With our membership, there are no additional copays or office visit fees. Your membership fee covers all primary care services, allowing you to access timely appointments, routine check-ups, and preventive care without worrying about unexpected costs. This straightforward pricing model enables you to focus on your health without the hassles of traditional insurance billing. If there are any additional fees for specific services not covered by your membership, we will inform you beforehand.
What about charges for things in the clinic like EKGs, etc.?
In the current medical culture, hidden pricing can be exorbitant, but we believe in transparency. We want our patients to know upfront how much things will cost. For procedures performed in the office, any nominal fee (usually around $5 to $10) is intended to cover the cost of materials, such as syringes or medications. The majority of these services are included in your membership at no additional charge. For instance, if you need an EKG for a medical reason, your membership already covers that.
We strive to keep all costs transparent and affordable. Before any additional services are performed, we will inform you of the costs involved, allowing you to make an informed decision. Our goal is to provide high-quality care without unexpected expenses, ensuring you always know what to expect.
Why the Name Unique Health Now?
The name ‘Unique Health Now’ reflects our commitment to providing individualized care tailored to each patient’s needs. We believe that everyone deserves a personalized approach to their health and wellness, which is why we focus on building strong relationships with our patients. The ‘Now’ in our name signifies our dedication to timely access to care, ensuring you receive the attention and services you need when you need them. Together, these elements highlight our mission to deliver exceptional, patient-centered healthcare that stands out in today’s medical landscape.
I’m ready to get started. How do I make an appointment?
Great! We’re currently accepting new members. To get started, simply click the link below or the “Sign Up” button at the top right of the page, which will take you to our registration page.
What is not included in the membership?
We currently do not provide prenatal, pregnancy, obstetrics, or pediatric care in our practice. However, we can connect you with excellent OBGYNs, pediatricians, and additional resources within our community. Additionally, we do not prescribe chronic Schedule II medications, such as opioids or amphetamines. It’s important to note that your membership does not cover services performed outside our office, including hospitalizations, surgeries, or specialist visits.
What if I get admitted to the hospital?
In the past, patients were typically seen by their primary care doctor while in the hospital. However, as hospital systems have become more regulated and complex, dedicated ‘hospitalists’—doctors who work exclusively in the hospital and do not manage an outside clinic—have become more common. Despite this shift, we ensure that your hospitalist has all the necessary information to make the best decisions for your care.
Do you accept patients with pre-existing medical conditions?
Yes! Having a pre-existing medical condition will not affect your eligibility for membership or the membership price.
