Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about direct primary care at Halcyon Health.
What is direct primary care?
Direct primary care (DPC) is a membership-based model where you pay a flat monthly fee for access to your doctor — no per-visit fees, no matter how often you come in. There are no copays, no insurance billing, and no surprise charges. You get longer appointments, same-day availability, and a real relationship with a physician who knows you.
Do I still need health insurance?
Yes. Halcyon Health is not a health insurance plan. Your membership covers primary care services, but not hospitalizations, major surgery, or specialty procedures. DPC pairs well with high-deductible health plans or medical cost-sharing plans. We recommend consulting an insurance broker to find the right fit.
Why don't you accept insurance?
We work directly for our patients, not insurance companies. Traditional practices spend significant time on coding, billing, and prior authorizations — time that takes away from patient care. By removing insurance from the equation, our physicians can focus entirely on you: longer visits, more thoughtful care, and zero paperwork on your end.
Is this the same as concierge medicine?
Not quite. Both models prioritize personal, unhurried care — but the cost structure is different. Concierge practices typically charge annual retainers of $2,000 or more and still bill your insurance for visits. At Halcyon Health, your monthly membership covers everything with no additional insurance billing. It's a more affordable and transparent way to get the same level of attention.
New for 2026
Your HSA now covers DPC membership
As of January 1, 2026, monthly direct primary care membership fees are HSA-eligible medical expenses. That means you can use your Health Savings Account to pay for your Halcyon Health membership — making high-quality primary care even more affordable.
HSA-EligibleCan I use my HSA to pay my membership?
Yes. As of January 1, 2026, the monthly DPC membership fee is an HSA-eligible medical expense. You can use your Health Savings Account to cover your Halcyon Health membership.
Can I really text, call, and video chat with my doctor?
Yes — that's one of the biggest benefits of membership. You can reach your physician directly by phone, text, email, or video. No call centers, no automated phone trees, no waiting weeks for a callback. If your concern can be handled remotely, we'll save you a trip to the office.
What's included in my membership?
Your membership includes office visits with no per-visit fees, same-day and next-day appointments, annual wellness exams, chronic disease management, mental health support, basic procedures, and direct communication with your doctor. Labs and prescriptions are available at wholesale cost — often a fraction of what you'd pay elsewhere. View our full pricing and services page for details.
How does Halcyon Health use AI?
We use AI as a tool to enhance — never replace — the care our physicians provide. During your visit, an AI scribe listens and documents your conversation in real time, so your doctor can focus entirely on you instead of typing into a computer. This means more eye contact, more listening, and more thorough notes.
We also use AI language models as a diagnostic support tool. These models can help our physicians cross-reference symptoms, review the latest medical literature, and consider a broader range of possibilities — all to help ensure nothing gets missed. Every clinical decision is always made by your doctor.
Is my information safe when AI is being used?
Absolutely. All AI tools we use are HIPAA-compliant and your health information is protected by the same strict privacy standards that govern all of your medical records. AI-generated notes are reviewed and finalized by your physician before they become part of your chart. Your data is never sold or shared with third parties.
I'm healthy and rarely see a doctor. Is this worth it?
We think so. Having a trusted physician who knows your history matters most when something unexpected happens. In the meantime, your membership gives you access to preventive care, health coaching, and wellness guidance that can help you stay healthy. And when you do need care, you won't be starting from scratch with a stranger.
Do you accept patients with pre-existing conditions?
Yes. We accept all patients regardless of pre-existing conditions. There are no exclusions, no waiting periods, and no limitations based on your health history.
I have Medicare. Can I join?
Yes. Our model is especially valuable for Medicare-eligible patients. We have more time to listen, coordinate your care with specialists and caregivers, and manage the complexity that often comes with multiple providers. Many of our Medicare-age members say it's the best care experience they've ever had.
What about specialty care?
Because our physicians have more time with you, we can manage the majority of your healthcare needs in-house. When specialty care is needed, we have a trusted network of specialists in Orange County and beyond. We'll coordinate the referral, communicate with your specialist, and make sure nothing falls through the cracks.
Can my employer offer Halcyon Health as a benefit?
Yes — we partner with businesses of all sizes to bring direct primary care to their teams. It's a cost-effective way to provide exceptional healthcare while reducing time away from work. Visit our employer page or contact us to learn more.
What if I want to cancel?
Canceling is easy — just let us know. There are no long-term contracts. We do charge an enrollment fee when you join, and if you cancel and later decide to rejoin, the enrollment fee will apply again.
Technology at Halcyon
Your doctor's full attention — powered by smarter tools
At Halcyon Health, we use AI scribes so your physician never has to look away from you to take notes. And our AI-powered diagnostic tools help your doctor think through every possibility — so you get care that's both personal and precise.
Technology handles the busywork. Your doctor handles you.