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In short How it works Cash-pay visits and direct primary care What to ask before you book Where Pymander fits Common questions SourcesA cash-pay doctor charges you directly for a visit instead of billing your insurance, usually at a flat price you can learn before you go.
It is also called self-pay or direct pay. The details differ between practices, so ask a few questions first.
How it works
You pay the clinic at or after the visit, often a flat fee for a visit type. There is no claim, no deductible, and no explanation of benefits. Some practices list prices online. Others will tell you if you ask.
Cash-pay visits and direct primary care
Some practices charge a monthly membership for ongoing primary care, called direct primary care. Others charge per visit. Membership usually does not cover labs, imaging, or specialists, which are priced separately.
What to ask before you book
Ask for the price in writing, what the visit includes, whether labs or tests cost extra, and whether the practice will give a discount for same-day payment. If you are scheduling at least 3 business days ahead and not using insurance, providers usually must give you a good faith estimate, according to CMS.
Where Pymander fits
Pymander is an AI-native cash pay healthcare system. Its AI doctor is free to text, and its catalog lists cash prices from outside sources for medications, lab tests, visits, and scans, so you can see a price before you decide.
Common questions
What is a cash-pay doctor?
A clinician or practice that charges you directly for care instead of billing insurance, usually at a flat price per visit or a membership fee.
Is a cash-pay doctor cheaper?
Sometimes, especially for routine visits when you are uninsured or have a high deductible. Prices vary, so ask for the total, including labs and tests.
Do I have a right to a price estimate?
If you do not use insurance, providers usually must give you a good faith estimate when you schedule care at least 3 business days ahead or ask for one, according to CMS.
What is direct primary care?
A model where you pay a monthly membership for ongoing primary care. Labs, imaging, and specialists are usually priced separately.
Can I get a cash price without calling around?
Pymander's catalog lists cash prices from outside sources for medications, lab tests, visits, and scans.