FAQ
General Questions About Concierge Medicine
What is concierge medicine?
Concierge medicine is a relationship-based approach to healthcare where patients pay a membership fee for enhanced access to their physician. This model allows us to limit our patient panel size, ensuring more time and attention for each patient, same-day appointments, direct communication with your doctor, and a more personalized healthcare experience.
How is concierge medicine different from traditional primary care?
Traditional primary care often involves large patient panels, limited appointment availability, short visits, and multiple layers between you and your physician. Concierge medicine offers direct access to your physician, longer unhurried appointments, same-day scheduling, and a more personalized approach to your healthcare.
Is concierge medicine the same as "direct primary care"?
While both models focus on enhanced access and personalized care, there are differences. Concierge practices like Goodhaven Health typically work with insurance for medical services while charging a membership fee for enhanced access. Direct primary care practices often operate entirely outside the insurance system with a different fee structure.
Membership and Costs
How much does membership at Goodhaven Health cost?
Membership fees vary based on individual needs and service levels. We’re happy to discuss our transparent pricing structure during your initial consultation. The investment reflects the enhanced access, availability, and personalized care you receive.
Is the membership fee covered by insurance?
The membership fee is typically not covered by health insurance. However, standard medical services provided at Goodhaven Health are generally billable to insurance just as they would be at any primary care practice.
What's included in the membership fee?
Your membership fee covers enhanced access to Dr. Witt including same-day appointments, direct communication via phone and text, 24/7 availability for urgent concerns, unhurried visits, and comprehensive care coordination. Medical services are billed separately, typically through your insurance.
What if I decide to leave the practice?
We understand circumstances change. If you choose to leave Goodhaven Health, you’ll be reimbursed for any unused portion of your membership fee that extends beyond your departure date.
Care and Services
What services does Goodhaven Health provide?
We offer comprehensive primary care services including preventive care, chronic disease management, mental health support, and urgent care treatments. We also provide wellness and lifestyle counseling, coordination with specialists, and a range of in-office procedures.
How quickly can I get an appointment?
Same-day appointments are available for urgent concerns. For non-urgent matters, we typically schedule appointments within 1-2 days based on your preference and availability.
Do you offer telemedicine or virtual visits?
Yes, we offer both video visits and telephone consultations for appropriate care situations. We also provide traditional in-office appointments and home visits when necessary.
What if I need to see a specialist?
Dr. Witt will coordinate any necessary specialty care, leveraging established relationships with Boston’s top specialists. We can expedite referrals to physicians at leading hospitals including MGH, Brigham and Women’s, and Beth Israel Deaconess. For complex cases requiring subspecialty expertise, we can also arrange referrals to Mayo Clinic.
What happens if I have a medical emergency?
For life-threatening emergencies, you should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. For urgent but non-life-threatening concerns, members have 24/7 direct access to Dr. Witt via phone. He can provide immediate guidance, meet you at the office after hours if needed, or coordinate your emergency care.
Becoming a Patient
How do I join Goodhaven Health?
The process begins with a conversation. Contact us through our website or by phone, and we’ll schedule a time to discuss your healthcare needs and explain our membership options. If you decide to join, we’ll help you complete the necessary paperwork and schedule your first comprehensive visit.
Can my whole family join the practice?
Yes, we welcome patients from age 16 and up. Family memberships are available with potential adjustments to the standard membership fee structure.
Do you accept insurance?
While the membership fee is paid directly by patients, we do accept most major insurance plans for billable medical services. We’re happy to verify your insurance coverage before your first visit.
What if I'm currently with another primary care physician?
We’ll work with you to ensure a smooth transition. With your permission, we’ll request your medical records from your current physician to maintain continuity of care. We can also help you navigate the process of formally changing your primary care provider with your insurance if needed.
I have more questions. How can I learn more?
We’d be happy to answer any additional questions you might have. Please contact us to schedule a conversation with our team.
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