A direct-specialty care model is a healthcare approach that gives patients access to specialty services without going through insurance. Instead of billing a third party, care is offered at transparent, upfront prices that are agreed upon in advance. This model removes many of the administrative barriers that often delay care—such as referrals, prior authorizations, and unpredictable billing. It allows for a more straightforward relationship between you and your surgeon, with a focus on timely access, clear communication, and personalized care.

Direct-specialty care is designed for individuals who value simplicity, transparency, and timely access to surgical care. It can be a good fit for: Patients with high-deductible insurance plans who prefer predictable, upfront pricing (usually less than traditional hospital pricing) Individuals without insurance seeking affordable, high-quality care Employers looking for cost-effective options for their employees Patients who want to avoid delays related to referrals or insurance approvals Anyone seeking a more direct, personalized relationship with their surgeon

This practice primarily operates outside of the traditional insurance model, which means office visits and consultations are not billed to insurance. Instead, these services are offered at transparent, upfront prices so you know the cost before moving forward. For surgical procedures, insurance may be used for certain portions of your care—typically separate billing is involved for the facility fee, anesthesia, and pathology, commonly. The surgeon’s professional fee is often separate and may not be billed to insurance, depending on the specific arrangement. We’ll review this with you in advance so you clearly understand what is included, what (if anything) may go through insurance, and what your out-of-pocket costs will be. Many patients also use Health Savings Accounts (HSA) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for eligible expenses. If you have out-of-network benefits, we can provide documentation for you to submit for possible reimbursement.

Bundled pricing is designed to give individuals who are self-pay clarity and predictability by outlining the cost of surgical care upfront.  In most cases and depending on where your procedure is performed, the bundle includes the surgeon’s professional fee for routine pre/post operative care, the procedure itself, including the surgical facility, anesthesia, pathology.   Additional services, such as labs or imaging may be billed separately.  If that applies, we’ll review those details with you in advance so you have a clear understanding of the full cost. Our goal is to minimize surprises and ensure you know exactly what to expect before moving forward. Does not apply to those using traditional insurance for surgical procedures as the pricing is based on your plan coverage.

Your first visit is designed to be unhurried, comfortable, and focused entirely on you. Unlike traditional office visits, you’ll be welcomed into a private setting with little to no wait time. We’ll begin with a thoughtful conversation about what brought you in, along with a broader review of your health to better understand the full picture. A focused physical exam may be performed, depending on your concerns. From there, you’ll receive clear, personalized recommendations for next steps. We’ll walk through your options together, with plenty of time to ask questions so you feel informed and confident in your care plan. If surgery is recommended and scheduled within six months, your consultation fee will be applied toward the cost of your procedure.  After six months, a follow-up evaluation may be needed to reassess your health and ensure it is safe to proceed with surgery. 60 minutes is reserved just for you, whether you need the full hour or not.

The timing of surgery depends on your specific condition. During your consultation, Dr. Ho will review your symptoms and overall health to help determine how urgent your procedure is. If surgery is recommended but not urgent, you’ll have the flexibility to schedule at a time that works best for you. We’ll coordinate with your availability to find a date that fits your schedule while ensuring appropriate and timely care. Note that if your surgery is scheduled beyond 6 months from the date of consultation or you have any intermittent changes in your overall health, you may need to have another pre-op visit prior to surgery.

10-14 days after your procedure, you will have one routine in-person or video post-operative visit included in your surgical care (regardless of insurance global periods). In addition to that visit, you’ll have direct access to your surgeon by phone or text if questions or concerns come up. Your surgeon will also personally check in with you—usually the evening of your procedure or the following morning—to make sure you’re recovering comfortably and to address any early needs. Our goal is to provide ongoing support and continuity, not just a single follow-up appointment.