An inflammation of the joints is caused by spondyloarthritis, a group of inflammatory diseases. Among the most common types is axial spondyloarthritis, which affects primarily the spine and pelvic joints. Other organs, such as the eyes, skin, and intestines, can also be affected by spondyloarthritis. It causes pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility.
Many patients with spondyloarthritis face challenges accessing timely and personalized primary care services due to the chronic nature of the condition. Direct Primary Care (DPC) can help.
In DPC, patients are offered high-quality and comprehensive primary care for a fixed periodic fee per patient, removing barriers to access. By not accepting insurance or third-party payments, DPC practices can reduce administrative costs and focus on patient care while reducing administrative costs. Also available are longer and more frequent visits, same-day or next-day appointments, 24/7 access to the physician via phone or email, and discounted labs and medications.
DPC can offer several benefits for patients with spondyloarthritis, such as:
In order to better diagnose, treat, and refer patients with spondyloarthritis, DPC practices can provide faster and easier access to primary care services. Disease progression and complications can be prevented or delayed by early diagnosis and treatment. For optimal management of spondyloarthritis, DPC practices can coordinate care with specialists such as rheumatologists, dermatologists, and gastroenterologists.
Patients can achieve improved satisfaction, adherence, and outcomes when DPC practices foster a strong and trusting relationship with physicians. In addition to listening to patients' concerns, educating them about their condition, and tailoring treatment plans to meet their needs and preferences, DPC physicians can also monitor patients' progress and adjust treatments accordingly.
By eliminating insurance fees, copays, deductibles, and coinsurance, DPC practices can reduce the costs of primary care services for patients with spondyloarthritis. In addition to offering lower prices for labs, medications, and imaging services, DPC practices can also help patients save money on medical expenses. Patients with spondyloarthritis can also benefit from DPC practices by receiving high-quality, comprehensive care that can improve their health and quality of life.
Personalized spondyloarthritis management can be provided by DPC practices. DPC physicians can use a holistic and patient-centered approach to spondyloarthritis management, which can include:
A DPC physician can prescribe and monitor spondyloarthritis medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologics, and corticosteroids. Through their network of pharmacies and wholesalers, DPC physicians are also able to assist patients in accessing affordable and high-quality medications.
For patients with spondyloarthritis, DPC physicians can recommend and supervise physical therapy and exercise programs that can improve their joint function, mobility, and strength. As well as providing advice on how to prevent or manage injuries and flare-ups, DPC physicians can also provide guidance.
It is possible for DPC physicians to advise and support patients with spondyloarthritis on how to change their lifestyle, including quitting smoking, losing weight, eating a balanced diet, managing stress, and getting enough sleep. It is also possible for DPC physicians to help patients cope with the emotional and psychological aspects of living with a chronic condition.
DPC physicians can educate and empower spondyloarthritis patients on how to understand and manage their condition, such as recognizing signs and symptoms, knowing when to seek medical attention, following the treatment plan, and participating in decision-making together. A DPC physician can also provide patients with resources and referrals to advocacy groups, support groups, and online communities.
Spondyloarthritis is a challenging condition that requires ongoing and individualized care. By delivering and financing primary care in an innovative manner, DPC can offer patients with spondyloarthritis timely, personalized care, improve their health and quality of life, and lower their health care costs. By providing spondyloarthritis patients with the best primary care possible, DPC can help them achieve this goal.
As the famous quote by Hippocrates says, “The greatest medicine of all is to teach people how not to need it.”
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