Concierge Medicine is an innovative alternative healthcare model improving access to your physician with a flat membership fee. No fee-for-service payments. No third party billing.
The concierge approach revolutionizes our medical practice by placing our patient relationships at the forefront. There are no intermediaries influencing your care decisions. Through the removal of insurance company constraints and bureaucratic hurdles, the focus shifts entirely to your well-being. You and your physician take control of your healthcare journey. Under the concierge model, patients enjoy unparalleled access to their chosen physician, and physicians prioritize their accountability to patients above all else.
The terms are often used interchangeably, as both models provide direct access to the provider and personalized care, however the direct primary care model bills additional office fees while also charging a membership fee. Neither model bills insurance.
The concierge model benefits all patients seeking a personalized relationship with their physician. Individuals in good health, requiring 1-4 annual visits, gain access for wellness check-ups and consultations to proactively prevent disease rather than reactively treat it. Those with chronic conditions, needing more frequent visits, receive ample time for discussions on lifestyle choices, treatment plans, and thorough medical histories to address existing or potential issues.
Many of us overlook minor medical concerns due to cost and inconvenience, yet these can escalate into serious problems over time. Early intervention is crucial, which is why we’re here to provide comprehensive care.
Unexpected illnesses or injuries can arise, and Dr Westmoreland is prepared to offer prompt attention without lengthy waits, costly urgent care fees, or emergency room expenses. The savings from just one ER visit typically cover membership fees for a year.
Ms.Medicine is a national network of primary care providers practicing evidence-based medicine. The network was formed to address many complex needs (especially for women) that are often not addressed in traditional primary care settings due to lack of time and training. Please know that Concierge Medicine of Minnesota will accept men, women and children (call if under age 6) and provide exceptional primary care for the whole family. As a member of the Ms.Medicine network, Dr Westmoreland will also undertake advance training in women’s health-specific concerns, such as menopause/peri-menopause, sexual health, bone health and more. The affiliation agreement with the Ms.Medicine network increases access to some of the top women’s health internists, as well as support for the concierge model.
We do not, and we couldn’t be more thrilled about it! We embrace the concierge model, which operates on a straightforward, annual membership fee. By opting out of insurance participation, we eliminate intermediaries entirely. Our sole commitment is to you, our patient. Through this approach, we achieve significant savings by bypassing the administrative burden and paperwork associated with insurance companies. Instead, we channel our resources directly into providing you with the care you deserve.
You may have the option to use your HSA funds to cover your membership fees (please verify with your administrator as plans may differ). In certain instances, we can furnish an itemized receipt for you to submit to your insurance for potential out-of-network benefits. Some patients choose to complement their Concierge Medicine of Minnesota membership with a high deductible/lower premium health insurance plan, which can help reduce overall out-of-pocket expenses and promote ongoing health savings.
Yes. Concierge Medicine of Minnesota is not an insurance plan, nor does it replace insurance. We recommend carrying insurance to cover you for hospitalizations, surgeries, and care needs outside of the membership fee.
No, concierge membership fees do not count as an eligible health expense towards your insurance deductible.
Yes! You only need sign a one-time waiver declaring that neither you nor your doctor will directly bill Medicare for services. Medicare will still cover any hospitalizations, specialty care, laboratory testing, imaging, or medications prescribed by our office. In addition, your membership fee cannot be submitted to Medicare for reimbursement.
While our primary emphasis lies in prevention through enhanced access and a lifestyle-focused approach, should you require care beyond our scope, we will facilitate coordination with specialists or hospital teams.
Please note that hospital care is not covered by our fee; this is where your insurance coverage becomes relevant. Dr. Westmoreland will collaborate closely with the hospital team during your admission and discharge to ensure continuity in your care. If a specialist is needed, we will provide referrals, drawing upon our professional network to identify the most suitable care for you. In certain situations, we can coordinate with a specialist regarding your condition and develop a treatment plan without necessitating an in-person visit, thereby saving you both time and money.
Yes! We care for patients ages 3 and up! At this time, we are negotiating rates for infant vaccinations, and may need to refer patients for this care. Please call to discuss patients under 3.
Yes! A head-to-toe exam is completed including a thorough cardiac exam. Vision screening and vital signs are assessed. If findings are abnormal, recommendations for appropriate follow-up will be given. For members, the sports physical is included as part of your membership. For nonmembers, the fee is $35. Additional charges may apply if testing is indicated, including labs, imaging, or ECG.
Please bring a guardian and a completed MHSAA medical history form. If you have a prior history of a cardiac condition, bring a copy of your separate clearance from cardiology.
Concierge Medicine of Minnesota does not keep any controlled medications in the clinic.
We do not manage chronic pain and will not routinely prescribe narcotics or other controlled substances (Tramadol, Codeine, Hydrocodone, Soma, etc.) on an on-going basis. We recognize
chronic pain management as a specialized field of medicine and believe long-term treatment of chronic pain should be addressed by a board certified pain management physician in an accredited pain management center.
We do not routinely prescribe controlled substances for the long-term treatment of anxiety. Anti-anxiety drugs such as Xanax (alprazolam), Klonopin (clonazepam), Ativan (lorazepam) and Valium (diazepam) may be prescribed for the short-term treatment of acute anxiety, or on an infrequent “as-needed” basis, but will not be prescribed for routine long-term use. Antidepressants and certain other anti-anxiety medications are not controlled substances and will be prescribed as needed.
We will assist in coordinating any necessary imaging at your preferred location. Furthermore, we will ensure timely follow-up with you regarding the results.
Not unless requested by the patient. Patient privacy is a natural benefit of this medical model. We will never provide any third party with a copy of your records, unless you specifically ask us to do so or if required by law.
Absolutely! We recognize that illness can strike at any time, regardless of typical business hours. As a member of Concierge Medicine of Minnesota, you’ll have direct access to your physician via phone or a secure app for any unexpected concerns outside of regular office hours.
For emergency matters after hours, patients can contact Dr. Westmoreland by calling or texting her personal cell phone, or by using the secure app for non-urgent inquiries.