What is Direct Primary Care?
At Just Health Family Medicine in Ridgefield, CT, Dr. Minelva Donato is redefining healthcare by introducing the Direct Primary Care (DPC) model, a patient-first approach designed to restore personalized, accessible, and comprehensive medical care. As of 2025, Just Health Family Medicine has fully transitioned to DPC, ensuring that every patient receives unhurried, relationship-based care without the interference of insurance-driven restrictions.
Traditional healthcare is often burdened with long wait times, rushed appointments, and complex insurance requirements. DPC eliminates these obstacles by allowing patients to have direct access to their doctor through a membership-based model. This means longer visits, same-day or next-day appointments, transparent pricing, and a strong focus on preventive care and chronic disease management.
By removing insurance barriers, Dr. Donato can focus entirely on what matters most—your health. This model brings healthcare back to its roots, where the doctor-patient relationship is prioritized, and quality, not quantity, defines care. Whether you need a routine check-up, chronic disease management, or urgent medical attention, Just Health Family Medicine ensures you receive timely, thorough, and compassionate care tailored to your individual needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Direct Primary Care
1. What is Direct Primary Care (DPC)?
Direct Primary Care is a membership-based model where patients pay a monthly fee for unlimited access to their physician. This model removes insurance complexities, allowing doctors to provide longer, more meaningful visits and focus on preventative and personalized care.
2. How is DPC different from traditional insurance-based healthcare?
Unlike traditional healthcare, which often involves copays, deductibles, and limited visit times, DPC offers:
• No insurance billing – All care is covered by a simple, flat membership fee.
• Longer appointments – Spend 30-60 minutes with Dr. Donato, not just a rushed 10-minute visit.
• Same-day or next-day appointments – No long waits or scheduling delays.
• Direct access to your doctor – Communicate with Dr. Donato via phone, text, or video for medical concerns.
3. What does my membership include?
Your DPC membership at Just Health Family Medicine covers:
• Unlimited primary care visits
• Extended appointment times
• Annual physicals and wellness exams
• Chronic disease management (diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, etc.)
• Same-day or next-day urgent care visits
• Telemedicine consultations
• Preventive screenings and lab coordination
• Basic in-office procedures (such as wound care, joint injections, and more)
4. Do I still need health insurance if I join DPC?
Yes, DPC is not a replacement for health insurance. While your membership covers primary care services, we recommend having a high-deductible health plan or a health sharing plan for emergencies, hospitalizations, or specialist care.
5. What if I need specialist care or hospital services?
Dr. Donato will work with specialists, imaging centers, and hospitals to provide referrals and ensure coordinated care. Some DPC members choose to pair their membership with a catastrophic insurance plan or a health savings account (HSA) plan for unexpected medical expenses.
6. Is Direct Primary Care expensive?
No! In fact, DPC often saves patients money by eliminating unnecessary copays, high deductibles, and inflated medical bills. The monthly membership fee is an affordable, predictable cost that covers comprehensive primary care, often resulting in fewer ER visits, fewer unnecessary prescriptions, and better overall health.
7. Can I use my HSA or FSA to pay for DPC?
While some HSAs and FSAs allow payments for DPC memberships, it’s best to check with your plan administrator to confirm eligibility.
8. How do I sign up for DPC with Just Health Family Medicine?
Becoming a DPC member is simple!
1. Visit our website or call our office to learn more.
2. Sign up for a monthly membership plan that fits your needs.
3. Schedule your first appointment and experience healthcare the way it should be—personal, accessible, and centered on you.