The heart murmur is caused by turbulent or abnormal blood flow across your heart valves. It can be harmless (innocent) or worrisome (serious). A harmless heart murmur does not indicate a problem with your heart, while a worrisome heart murmur may indicate a heart defect or disease1.
Patients with heart murmurs may benefit from direct primary care (DPC), an innovative payment model that provides them direct access to their primary care provider, no third party billing, and lower costs. Rather than focusing on the volume of services or insurance company requirements, DPC emphasizes the relationship between you and your doctor.
DPC can offer several advantages for patients with heart murmurs, such as:
Getting more time with your doctor: DPC practices typically have fewer patients than traditional practices, which means you'll be able to schedule longer and more frequent appointments. This allows your doctor to monitor your heart condition more closely, perform thorough physical exams, listen to your heart sounds, and order any necessary tests or referrals3.
More convenience and flexibility: DPC practices often offer same-day or next-day appointments, as well as telehealth services, such as phone calls, emails, or video chats. This means you can access your doctor whenever you need to, without having to wait for weeks or months. You will also avoid the need to visit the emergency room or urgent care, which can be stressful and expensive4.
As opposed to a one-size-fits-all approach, DPC practices cater to your specific needs and preferences. Your doctor can work with you to create a customized care plan that addresses your heart murmur and any other health issues you may have. Additionally, you can participate in and control your treatment decisions, and your doctor can assist you with navigating the healthcare system and coordinating your care with other specialists5.
DPC practices charge a flat monthly, quarterly, or annual fee that covers most primary care services without any copays, deductibles, or coinsurance. The fee is usually lower than what you would pay for traditional insurance premiums, and it gives you more control over how much your healthcare costs will cost. Additionally, your DPC practice may offer discounted rates on medications, labs, imaging, and other services6.
If you have a heart murmur, your DPC doctor can help you manage your condition and improve your quality of life. Depending on the type and severity of your heart murmur, your DPC doctor may:
Educate you about your heart murmur and how it affects your health
Prescribe medications to treat any underlying causes or symptoms of your heart murmur, such as high blood pressure, heart failure, or infections
Recommend lifestyle changes to prevent or reduce the risk of complications from your heart murmur, such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress
Refer you to a cardiologist or a surgeon if you need further evaluation or treatment for your heart murmur, such as echocardiography, cardiac catheterization, or valve repair or replacement
Follow up with you regularly to monitor your heart function, adjust your medications, and provide ongoing support and guidance
As Benjamin Franklin said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” By choosing DPC, you can take a proactive and preventive approach to your heart health and enjoy the benefits of a direct and lasting relationship with your doctor. DPC can help you manage your heart murmur and achieve your health goals, without traditional healthcare hassle and expense.
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