Direct Primary Care Could Expand Under Trump’s Healthcare Policies
Direct primary care (DPC) is gaining attention as a healthcare alternative that may see further growth under former President Donald Trump’s potential second administration. The model, which allows patients to pay a monthly fee for direct access to doctors without insurance involvement, has been praised for affordability and efficiency.
Growing Popularity of Direct Primary Care
DPC clinics charge patients between $50 and $100 per month, providing unlimited consultations and discounted medical services. This system has been particularly beneficial for individuals without insurance or those facing high out-of-pocket costs.
Dr. Wendy Molaska, a DPC physician in Madison, Wisconsin, has seen a surge in demand, with a waiting list of 125 patients. Many of her clients, like Andrea Meneses, have turned to DPC after struggling with traditional insurance-based healthcare.
Meneses’ family joined Molaska’s clinic after an emergency involving her grandmother, who was visiting from Bolivia and needed urgent insulin replacement. Unable to access insurance, the family sought help through DPC and secured affordable medication through a community pharmacy.
Potential Policy Support Under Trump
DPC may receive policy backing under Trump, as Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services, has discussed its benefits. Experts suggest that DPC could expand further if the administration pushes healthcare deregulation or insurance alternatives.
Gayle Brekke, a Kansas City-based researcher, believes DPC is on the verge of mainstream adoption. “This is the most optimistic I’ve ever been about it,” she said.
Project 2025, a conservative policy plan developed ahead of a second Trump term, specifically mentions DPC as a way to improve access to affordable care. Supporters argue that it strengthens the doctor-patient relationship while reducing bureaucracy.
Challenges and Limitations
Despite its advantages, critics caution that DPC is not a replacement for comprehensive health insurance. Monthly fees cover primary care but do not include hospital visits, surgeries, or specialist treatments.
Dr. Stephanie Woolhandler of Hunter College noted that low-income patients may still struggle to afford DPC fees, even if they are lower than traditional insurance premiums.
Additionally, DPC’s ability to handle chronic conditions is limited. Dr. James Vanderloo, a DPC physician in Mississippi, said the model is effective for managing conditions like diabetes but lacks coverage for major medical interventions.
Future Outlook
With mounting frustration over insurance complexities and high healthcare costs, DPC is emerging as a potential solution for those falling through the cracks of the system.
Dr. Lee Gross, a Florida-based DPC provider, believes the model will continue expanding, especially if federal policies encourage alternatives to traditional insurance.
“I see direct primary care as a lifeboat in a broken system,” he said. “We’re filling gaps and helping people access affordable care.”
If Trump returns to office and pushes for insurance reform, DPC could become a more significant part of America’s healthcare landscape.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Direct primary care (DPC) may not be suitable for everyone, and individuals should consult with a healthcare professional or insurance expert to assess their personal healthcare needs. The views expressed in this article reflect the opinions of the authors and experts quoted, and not necessarily those of any governmental or healthcare organization. Always seek personalized advice before making any healthcare decisions.