In a recent WXYZ Detroit interview, our founder and CEO, Dr. Blanchard, shared how concierge medicine is helping people break free from the traditional model of long wait times, rushed visits, and impersonal care. As one of the pioneers of concierge medicine services in the country, Dr. Blanchard has spent over 20 years showing that healthcare can be better—more accessible, more thoughtful, and more focused on people.
Concierge medicine is a membership-based healthcare model where patients pay a flat monthly or annual fee in exchange for direct access to their physician, longer visits, and personalized, proactive care. Instead of being limited by short appointments and overloaded schedules, concierge doctors spend more time with each patient and offer direct communication—by phone, text, or in person. This approach—also known as doctor concierge service or medical concierge services—offers what traditional healthcare often can’t: real relationships, longer visits, and proactive treatment from a doctor who knows you well.
Unlike traditional primary care, concierge physicians are not forced to rush through a packed schedule of 2,500 patients. Instead, they deliberately limit their panel sizes—typically to around 400–600 patients—to ensure they have time to listen, understand, and truly partner with each individual. At Premier Private Physicians, we take that even further by limiting our panel sizes to just 300 patients per doctor.
Unlike traditional practices, concierge medical services do not rely on insurance reimbursements. That means no coding, no approval delays, and no rushed care. In fact, most physicians in traditional clinics spend more than half their time on paperwork and administrative tasks—leaving less time for their patients and more frustration for everyone involved.
By removing those barriers, concierge doctors can devote their full attention to what truly matters: prevention, connection, and better health outcomes.
One of the most powerful aspects of concierge medicine is the depth of the doctor-patient relationship. In the traditional healthcare system, physicians are often forced to rush—spending just a few minutes with each patient before moving on.
With concierge medical services, that experience is completely different. A concierge doctor typically spends 30 to 60 minutes per visit, allowing enough time to go beyond surface-level symptoms and uncover the root causes of health concerns. Patients aren’t just numbers—they’re known, heard, and cared for with purpose.
Concierge doctors don’t rush to refer you out. They aim to solve problems within the practice first. And when a referral is necessary, it’s done thoughtfully—often with direct coordination between your doctor concierge service and the specialist.
This is healthcare designed for humans, not systems. It’s personalized care that prioritizes trust, time, and true partnership.
When it comes to your health, not all care models are created equal. Here’s how concierge medicine stacks up against the traditional healthcare system—highlighting key differences in overall patient experience:
| Feature | Traditional Primary Care | Concierge Medicine |
| Panel Size | 2,000–3,000 patients per doctor | 300–600 patients per doctor |
| Appointment Length | 7–15 minutes | 30–60 minutes |
| Wait Time for Appointment | Days to weeks | Same-day or next-day availability |
| Wait Time in Office | Often 15+ minutes | Typically under 5 minutes |
| Communication | Through front desk or patient portal | Direct phone and text access |
| Insurance Billing | Required | Not billed |
| Time Spent with Patients | Often <50% of physician’s day | Majority of physician’s time |
| Specialist Referrals | Frequent due to time constraints | Thoughtful, only when necessary |
| Doctor-Patient Relationship | Transactional | Relational and continuous |
The answer depends on your health goals, lifestyle, and expectations. If you value:
At SALTA Direct Primary Care, we believe everyone deserves a strong, personal connection with their healthcare provider. For those seeking an even more elevated experience, our sister organization, Premier Private Physicians, offers high-touch concierge medicine with enhanced access and service.
Both SALTA Direct and Premier are grounded in the same mission: to deliver personalized, relationship-based care that puts your needs first—tailored to different preferences and budgets.
Want to learn more about how concierge medicine works or whether it’s right for you?
Watch Dr. Blanchard’s full interview here or contact our representative for assistance.
Making Exceptional healthcare more accessible and affordable for everyone