pic

FAQs

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions. If you don’t see your question here please contact us.

How Is Next Direct Different Than Traditional Medical Clinics?

Next Direct uses an innovative model where providers are paid directly by their patients, rather than through insurance or government provided coverage. Basically, we’re cutting out the middle man, along with the hassle. This model of healthcare is rapidly growing and we are excited to announce the first multi-location clinic in The Greater Cincinnati Area. The DPC model is reminiscent of the provider-patient relationship from times past, when providers didn’t have thousands of patients they had plenty of time to spend with you, and you didn’t have to wait weeks for your appointment. Cutting out all the middlemen and red tape increases the provider’s and the patient’s satisfaction, and dramatically reduces the costs associated with Healthcare Delivery.

Is This An Insurance Policy?


No, Next Direct is a medical provider. Our model of care reduces the need for expensive, high deductible insurance plans. Important!: Even though Next Direct can provide 90% of the average person’s medical needs, all members are encouraged to have major medical insurance. The ACA legislation does exempt patients from the under-insured/non-­insured tax if you have major medical/catastrophic coverage and a provider on retainer, which is what you will get with Next Direct.  

Employers are finding they can save significant money because Next Direct eliminates many insurance claims.

How Can You Guarantee Same Or Next-Day Appointments?


We are a patient-centered medical provider meaning the needs of our patients come first. Our financial model is not based on having more patients, or doing more procedures. Our success is dependent on patient satisfaction. Next Direct will only be accepting a limited panel of patients per provider. Considering that traditional insurance-based managed care has patient panels of 2,000 to 4,000 or more per provider, it makes sense that you have to wait! Our patient panels are carefully controlled so we can spend plenty of time with you and get you in when you need to get in. This is the kind of care and attention we would want for our own families, and it’s what we offer our patients.

Does This Low Membership Fee Really Cover Everything For My Employees?


The membership entitles each employee to unlimited necessary medical treatment traditionally provided by your primary care physician plus more. This includes in-office procedures, consultation, well-baby visits, first aid, chronic illness treatment, preventative care and much more. The only additional charge possible is the lab work and prescription medication which is provided at very low wholesale pricing. You can see a list of most of our services and most common lab pricing here as well as a price comparison to traditional care.

What If I Need To Be Referred To A Specialist? Do You Offer Access To Specialty Services?


Next Direct will make a referral to a specialist when it is necessary. We have developed relationships with many specialists who are willing to provide cash pricing that are often much less than the insurance cost. We choose are specialists very carefully always with positive outcomes as the primary goal.

Can I Reach Next Direct After Hours?


Remember, if it is a medical emergency call 911. But we know that illness and and non-emergency injuries don’t always happen during office hours. If you just need to get in touch with us to order a medication refill or schedule an appointment, you can directly e-mail our provider anytime or leave us a voice mail. If you have a non-urgent question, but one that probably shouldn’t wait until tomorrow, members can leave a message and expect a prompt reply.

What About My Children? Do You Provide Pediatric Services?


We are a primary care provider and will handle well-baby visits, sports physicals and other services traditionally provided by your family doctor. We do not replace your need for a pediatrician.

Does Next Direct Provide Prenatal Care?


No, but we will coordinate with your OBGYN during your pregnancy and continue routine care for non-pregnancy related health needs.

Can I Get My Prescription Medications From Next Direct?


As a member, you have access to our entire pharmacy, and you pay wholesale pricing. This means your price is almost always below pharmacy prices. So in the vast majority of cases we can dispense your medications from the convenience of our office. We also do not dispense any DEA-controlled medications such as narcotic pain medicine, sedatives, or stimulants at this time. Visit our pharmacy page for more detailed pricing information about our convenient pharmacy program.

Can My Employees Use Their HSA To Pay For Next Direct Membership.


It is legally ambiguous if HSA funds can be used to pay for DPC membership fees. The law currently allows the use of HSA money to pay for medications, imaging tests, labs, etc. Legislation has been proposed to clear up the question regarding if HSA money can be spent on a provider’s retainer or membership fee.

What If I Need To Be Admitted To The Hospital?


Our providers will not be admitting you, but will stay in close communication with the hospital doctors caring for you, and ready to assume post-hospital follow-up care. We work very closely with all area hospitals.