Frequently asked questions
Still have a question after reading these? Message the clinic.
- What is direct primary care?
- Direct primary care is a membership model. You pay the practice directly each month, and in return you get unlimited access to your physician without insurance in the middle of your care decisions.
- Is this health insurance?
- No. Membership is not insurance and does not cover hospital care, emergency care, or specialist care. Most members keep a plan for catastrophic events while using their membership for everyday care.
- Can I keep my insurance?
- Yes. You can still use insurance for prescriptions, laboratory testing, imaging, and specialist referrals. The practice simply does not bill insurance for the care delivered here.
- How much does membership cost?
- Membership is $150 per month. That price is per member, and there is a one-time $25 enrollment fee when you join. There is no separate family, household, dependent, or child pricing.
- Can I prepay for my membership?
- Yes. You can pay monthly at $150, quarterly at $405 every three months (10% off), semiannually at $787.50 every six months (12.5% off), or annually at $1,530 (15% off). Prepaying is a billing choice only — every member receives the same care and the same access.
- How do I become a member?
- Enrollment and payment are handled securely through Hint. After you enroll, you will schedule your first visit and complete your medical intake.
- How quickly can I be seen?
- Same-day or next-day appointments are typically available, and visits are scheduled with enough time that you are never rushed.
- How do I reach Dr. Carlton between visits?
- Members message Dr. Carlton directly through the Spruce app. There is no phone tree and no front-office gatekeeping.
- Is the practice accepting new patients?
- Yes, until the panel reaches its limit. The patient panel will never exceed 300 patients, and a waiting list is expected once that cap is reached.
- Do I have to be a member to get an infusion?
- Infusion therapy requires an individual medical evaluation, and eligibility is determined by the physician. Availability and current pricing are confirmed after a clinical consultation.
- What if I have an emergency?
- For a traumatic injury or a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room or urgent care center. Membership does not replace emergency care.