DPC Networks FAQs
Are there any upfront fees to join a DPC network?
No. The fees associated with DPC networks come only when the DPC network sends patients to your practice. Typically the DPC network will take a small portion of the monthly membership for each patient. The amount varies and is negotiated between your practice and the network prior to signing your contract.
Does Hint provide DPC docs with a rough draft of an affiliate agreement?
No, Hint is not equipped to provide DPC doctors with legal advice. However, we have a list of legal counsel that we are happy to share. Contact our Practice Development Lead Lauren Tancredi at lauren@hint.com for more information.
Do most employer groups that contract with DPC networks provide health insurance in addition to DPC or are they primarily providing DPC only as a health benefit?
While there is no one-size-fits-all approach, we typically see smaller employers (<50 employees) providing DPC as the only benefit while larger employers (50-700) may provide DPC as part of a comprehensive package. The most successful, patient-centric, and cost-effective way to provide DPC is to center it in the benefits package. This means that the DPC provider is the first point of contact with the patient.
Will networks be able to pay affiliates through their HintOS account or will checks still need to be cut?
Currently networks will still need to cut checks to their affiliates. Payments through HintOS will be added in the future.
Do DPC networks have any EHR requirements or medical data sharing?
This will vary from one network to the next. Generally, larger employers will want more data from the network. As a result, the network may require affiliates who care for patients at these larger employers to provide utilization reports. Similarly, some DPC networks prefer all affiliates to use the same EHR while others do not have this requirement. When you affiliate with a DPC network, this should be one of the things you discuss.
Can non-insurance products like medical cost sharing be coupled with DPC within a DPC network?