If you are like most people you probably have some questions. Here is a list of some of the most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) we receive.
General Information
Question 1. What is direct primary care?
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians "The Direct Primary Care (DPC) model is a practice and payment model where patients/consumers pay their physician or practice directly in the form of periodic payments for a defined set of primary care services. DPC practices typically charge patients a flat monthly or annual fee, under terms of a contract, in exchange for access to a broad range of primary care and medical administrative services." In other words, it is a medical membership program.
Question 2. How do I learn more about AmericaHealth Direct?
You can read our Member Services Guide (DIR020) or visit our website at www.AmericaHealthDirect.com
Question 3. How do I sign-up for AmericaHealth Direct?
You can complete the AmericaHealth Direct Membership Agreement (DIR001) or visit our website at www.americahealthdirect.com/sign-up
Question 4. My mother (grandmother, etc.) lives with us. Can she get the discounted rate for a 2nd adult?
The spousal rate is only for a husband/wife or domestic partner. Otherwise, someone will need to pay for a separate adult membership.
Question 5. Is there an obligation to continue membership?
For individuals there is a one-year commitment once you sign-up. For employers, the membership is month-to-month.
Question 6. HOW CAN I PAY FOR AMERICAHEALTH DIRECT?
You can pay through an automatic check withdrawal or credit/debit card.
Question 7. Is an AmericaHealth Direct membership tax deductible?
The short answer is No. We are not allowed to answer tax or legal questions. You should refer to our AmericaHealth Direct Membership Agreement (DIR001) or visit our website at www.AmericaHealthDirect.com
question 8. Can I apply my first visit towards my AmericaHealth Direct membership?
Yes, provided that we have not already billed your insurance carrier for the services. Once we bill the insurance we cannot change it for a visit. All memberships start at the 1st of the month regardless of the date of the visit (see Question 10).
question 9. Do I have to pay for the AmericaHealth Direct discounts at the time of service?
Yes, that is the only way we can keep our discounted additional services so inexpensive. Of course, you can pay be credit or debit card. If you cannot afford to make the full payment at the time of service you will just pay the cash-pay or self-pay rate.
question 10. When do AmericaHealth direct memberships start?
- All memberships start on the 1st of the month regardless of when an individual enrolls. For example, if they enroll on the 25th of January, they will have to pay for the entire month of January’s membership, or they can start the enrollment the February 1st.
Question 11. CAN I STOP MY MEMBERSHIP AND START IT AGAIN AT A LATER DATE?
No, our system does not allow that. All memberships are continuous for one year.
Health Insurance
question 1. Is an americahealth direct membership health insurance?
No. Individuals and employers are encouraged to have health insurance to pay for medical services not provided for by their AmericaHealth Direct Membership.
Question 2. Do you bill my insurance for the services, or can i have to send in for reimbursement?
No. We will not file an insurance claim and you cannot to file an insurance claim for reimbursement. Also, your membership fees required under this contract do not apply towards any health insurance plan deductible.
question 3. Do I need an AmericaHealth Direct membership if I have health insurance?
If you are like most people and you have a high deductible health plan, an AmericaHealth membership can reduce your monthly health insurance expenses. You can get unlimited healthcare services at any of our urgent care facilities for one low monthly fee. There are no co-pays or deductibles. You can be seen as often as needed without worrying about what it will cost.
Question 4. What if I have medicare or medicaid?
Unfortunately, individuals who are enrolled in Medicare or Medicaid government programs are not eligible to participate in direct primary care plans.
Employer Plan
Question 1. My employer provides AmericaHealth Direct for employees, can I add a spouse or children?
Yes, provided that it is approved by your company. You will need to enroll through the employer.
Question 2. If I terminate employment with my company can I sign-up for AmericaHealth Direct individually?
Yes, the prices are the same. We will waive the normal enrollment fee since you were previously enrolled with your employer.
Question 3. Can my employer start an AmericaHealth Direct membership plan for our company?
Yes. We would love it and it will help the other employees at your company too.
Question 4. How are employers invoiced?
Employer invoices are generated on the 1st day of each month in draft form for the current month and are due on the 5th day of each month. Payments must be made via credit card, debit card, or automatic bank draft authorized by Employer.
AmericaHealth makes no representations regarding the legal or tax implications of membership. Member is encouraged to seek the advice of a competent tax professional for advice regarding any related legal or tax issues.