What is the difference between direct care and concierge care?

This is a direct care practice. The terms direct care and concierge medicine are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct differences, especially in how they're structured and how they charge patients. Here's a clear breakdown:

Direct Care 

• Payment Model: Patients pay the provider directly—typically a monthly or annual membership fee or fee-for-service, depending on the practice.

• Insurance: No insurance billing. Patients (and often the provider) do not use insurance for services rendered. Patients may still have insurance for hospitalizations or specialist care.

• Cost: Usually lower and more transparent than concierge medicine—common monthly fees are $50–$150.

• Philosophy: Focus on accessibility, affordability, and transparency. It’s often positioned as an alternative for people frustrated with insurance-based care.

Concierge Medicine

• Payment Model: Patients pay a high retainer fee for enhanced services and access. This is in addition to billing insurance for visits and procedures.

• Insurance: Still bills insurance or Medicare for covered services.

• Cost: Higher upfront cost for patients, often appealing to a wealthier clientele.

• Philosophy: Focus on luxury, convenience, and exclusivity. Patients may get 24/7 access, personal cell numbers, extended appointments, and more.
  

Do you bill insurance?

All services are direct-pay. IPC does not bill insurance directly—you can request a Superbill to submit for insurance reimbursement or use your Health Savings Accounts (HSA). Testing and labs ordered off-site may be billed to insurance separately.

What is integrative medicine?

Integrative Medicine shifts the focus of healthcare from treating disease to promoting health and healing. It recognizes that true wellness involves the mind, body, spirit, and community. By understanding a patient’s beliefs, culture, and lifestyle, clinicians can more effectively support meaningful behavior change—leading to better health outcomes and a more valuable, personalized approach to care.

Core Principles of Integrative Medicine

1. Patient-centered care
   The relationship between the patient and provider is collaborative and emphasizes empathy, trust, and individual values.

2. Whole-person focus
   Treatment plans take into account lifestyle, stress, nutrition, sleep, relationships, and emotional well-being—not just symptoms or lab results.

3. Combination of therapies
   Uses both conventional treatments (like medications or surgery) and complementary therapies (like mindfulness, acupuncture, nutrition counseling, breathing techniques, herbal medicine, etc.), as long as they are safe and evidence-informed.

4. Emphasis on prevention and wellness
   Promotes long-term health through lifestyle changes and proactive care, not just symptom management.

5. Evidence-informed decision-making
   Only complementary therapies supported by research or expert consensus are recommended, avoiding pseudoscience or unproven treatments.
   

What conditions do you treat?

We provide care for a range of pulmonary and neuromuscular respiratory conditions, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), neuromuscular weakness, COPD, asthma, chronic cough, recurrent bronchitis, vocal cord dysfunction, and breathing pattern disorders.

What is the care philosophy at IPC?

IPC blends conventional medicine with validated integrative approaches—such as meditation, breathing techniques, nutrition and lifestyle coaching—to treat the whole person across six key domains: body, mind, spirit, social connections, sleep, and nutrition. The model emphasizes unhurried visits, individualized care, and empathetic listening.

Can I try IPC before committing?

Yes—a free 15-minute introductory call with Dr. Sergew is offered. There is no obligation, and it’s meant to help determine if IPC is a good fit for your health goals.

How do I get started?

You can schedule your introductory call directly through the website. After that, you'll choose a care plan that fits your needs

What care plans do you offer, and how much do they cost?

• Two Visit Plan – $1,500

Includes one 90‑minute initial visit (telehealth or home), and a follow-up in 7–10 days (60 min). You’ll receive a personalized treatment plan, coaching (e.g. breathing, diet), access to Dr. Sergew during office hours, spirometry, and more.

• Six‑Month Membership Plan – $5,000 total ($800/month, minimum 6‑month commitment)

Features Telehealth visits (weekly or as needed), monthly home visits (within the Denver metro area), respiratory device management, medication review, evidence-based coaching, advanced care planning, coordination with other specialists, and access via phone/email/text.

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