What is Direct Primary Care?

Direct Primary Care (DPC) is a healthcare model that simplifies and strengthens the relationship between patient and provider.

Unlike traditional fee-for-service systems that rely heavily on insurance billing, DPC operates on a membership basis. Patients pay a low monthly fee which covers a wide range of primary care services, from preventive visits and chronic condition management to basic labs and urgent care.

By removing third-party insurance from routine care, DPC allows practitioners to spend more time with patients, offer more personalized attention, and operate with less administrative burden.

Appointments are longer, more relaxed, and focused on building meaningful relationships. For patients, this means better access, timely communication, and care tailored to their individual health goals.

The DPC model is also designed to promote transparency and affordability. There are no surprise bills or copays, and many practices offer wholesale pricing on labs, imaging, and prescriptions.

With fewer financial barriers and more proactive care, patients are empowered to take charge of their health—and providers are free to practice medicine the way it was meant to be.

The HELPcare Clinic Advantage

HELPcare Clinic embodies the best of the Direct Primary Care approach. HELPcare Clinic is an experience you can't get anywhere else.

  • You're a member, not a number. We take time to know and understand our members and build warm, trusting relationships. You belong here!
  • You get affordable primary care. Membership keeps costs low and we share the savings with our members. This contrasts clearly with the SE MN industrial medical system, which is the most expensive region in the state.
  • We HELP you take charge of your health. Unlike the fee-for-service system which profits from multiple visits and specialist referrals, our incentive is to do as much as possible in primary care to help you prevent or even reverse disease. When you need us less often, we both gain!

Whether you're managing a chronic condition or seeking preventive support, your HELPcare Clinic practitioner has the time and flexibility to provide thoughtful, unhurried care.

HELPcare offers multiple membership levels to suit your needs and budget, along with access to discounted labs and specialty services. It’s more than just healthcare—it’s a partnership built on trust, transparency, and your long-term well-being.

HELPcare Clinic locations include:

Take charge of your health with HELPcare—and experience care that truly puts you first!

And if you're a physician, a nurse practitioner, a physician assistant or another health professional, learn how HELPcare can help you take charge of your health care career.