Retainer Practice

To gain relief from health plan administrative complexities and expenses, family physicians are looking to retainer (also known as "boutique" or "concierge") practice designs. A full retainer practice assesses patients a member-fee for value-added services (e.g., 24/7 physician contact, home visit).

Some practices operate a traditional practice accepting insurance, but have patients agree to pay an annual fee for value-added services that are not covered under their insurance benefit plans.

It is important for physicians to be familiar with their payer contracts to determine if and what services are considered non-covered.