Indianapolis residents are increasingly exploring an alternative to traditional healthcare: a direct primary care model. This approach, gaining traction across the country, allows patients to bypass many of the frustrations of conventional insurance-based systems – long wait times, rushed appointments, and difficulty reaching a physician – in favor of a more personal and predictable healthcare experience. For a monthly fee, patients gain unlimited access to their doctor, often including options like texting and same-day appointments.
The appeal of this “subscription” model lies in its promise of restored relationships between patients and their doctors. As healthcare becomes increasingly complex, many feel lost in a system prioritizing billing and administrative hurdles over genuine care. Direct primary care aims to address this disconnect, offering a more streamlined and accessible path to wellness. But could this model truly scale and replace traditional healthcare as we know it?
Jenn Rosati, a mother of a seven-month-old son, Brooks, experienced firsthand the challenges of navigating traditional pediatric care. She recounted to Scripps News Group in Indianapolis how frustrating it was to be placed on hold for 12 minutes when attempting to schedule an appointment with other pediatricians. “It’s one thing to be on hold for 12 minutes when you don’t need anything,” she said. “But, what if he was, like, screaming or he had an ear infection, and we didn’t know what to do… And you were on hold for 12 minutes. It would feel like a lifetime.” This experience led her and her husband, Evan, to choose Dr. Sarah Bosslet at Traders Point Pediatrics, a direct primary care practice.
Dr. Bosslet, a pediatrician who previously worked at Riley Children’s Health, founded Traders Point Pediatrics in February 2025. She intentionally scaled down her patient load from 2,000 to 120, allowing her to dedicate more time and attention to each family. “Now, I don’t feel rushed,” Dr. Bosslet explained. “I know my families better.” She describes the model as akin to a “Netflix subscription” for healthcare, providing predictable costs and unlimited access. WishTV reports that families pay a flat monthly fee for unlimited doctor’s visits, without the involvement of insurance.
How Direct Primary Care Works
The direct primary care model operates on a simple premise: patients pay a recurring monthly fee directly to their physician, eliminating the need to file claims with insurance companies for routine care. This allows doctors to focus on patient care rather than administrative tasks. While the specific monthly fees vary depending on the practice and services offered, the core principle remains the same. Patients can typically access their doctor via phone, text, or video conferencing, and same-day appointments are often available.
Dr. Bosslet emphasizes that direct primary care is not intended to replace health insurance entirely. It’s designed to complement insurance by covering primary care services, while patients still need insurance for emergencies, specialist visits, and, in many cases, prescription medications. This distinction is crucial, as direct primary care practices typically do not handle complex medical issues requiring specialized care.
The Benefits of a Direct Relationship
For both patients and physicians, the benefits of this model extend beyond convenience. Jenn Rosati highlights the peace of mind that comes with having direct access to her son’s pediatrician. “For me, it’s just been a huge peace of mind,” she said. Dr. Bosslet, for her part, has rediscovered her passion for pediatrics. “Over the course of my career, that relationship building with families has really eroded, and it’s kind of fallen apart,” she explained. “This has brought those relationships back… being able to actually text with families or just reassure them or give them good information is really rewarding to me.”
The shift towards direct primary care reflects a growing dissatisfaction with the traditional healthcare system. Patients are seeking more personalized, accessible, and affordable care, and doctors are looking for ways to reclaim their time and focus on what matters most: their patients. As Dr. Bosslet notes, “My doctor doesn’t spend an hour with me. Nobody spends an hour with any patient anymore,” suggesting a broader trend of diminishing patient-physician interaction.
The Future of Primary Care
While direct primary care is gaining momentum, its widespread adoption faces challenges. The model requires a significant shift in mindset for both patients and providers, and it may not be suitable for everyone. However, as more practices embrace this approach and demonstrate its benefits, it could play an increasingly essential role in shaping the future of primary care. The growth of direct primary care in Indianapolis, as reported by WRTV, suggests a growing demand for alternative healthcare models that prioritize patient-centered care.
The long-term impact of direct primary care remains to be seen, but its potential to improve access, affordability, and the quality of care is undeniable. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, innovative models like this will likely become increasingly important in meeting the needs of patients and providers alike.
What are your thoughts on the direct primary care model? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below.
Disclaimer: This article provides informational content and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
