Welcome to DPC University: The Launchpad for Your Dream Practice

What if you could spend more time with patients, skip the insurance hassle, and build a practice that actually makes sense—for you and your patients? That’s the power of Direct Primary Care (DPC). And this curriculum is your blueprint to make it real.

Whether you’re fresh out of medical school or already practicing and ready for a change, the Optimized DPC University Curriculum gives you the tools, confidence, and clarity to build and launch a thriving DPC practice that puts patient care first—without sacrificing your life outside of medicine.

1. Direct Primary Care Overview Key Principles

We start with the “why.” You’ll explore what makes DPC so different from traditional models—and why it’s gaining momentum among physicians and patients alike.

You’ll learn:

• The core philosophy behind DPC and how it shifts the doctor-patient relationship
• How DPC eliminates bureaucracy and allows for more time per visit
• Common types of DPC practices (solo, group, hybrid) and what works best
• Key features like flat-fee pricing and unlimited visits
• Why more patients are choosing DPC over traditional primary care

After this module: You’ll have total clarity on why this model matters, how it impacts your patients, and how it aligns with your core values as a physician.

2. Legal and Regulatory Issues

Don’t worry—you don’t need a law degree. We’ve broken down the key legal and compliance essentials so you can move forward with confidence, not confusion.

You’ll learn:

• What’s legally required in your state to operate a DPC clinic
• How to navigate scope of practice, malpractice, HIPAA, and licensing requirements
• Guidelines for dealing with Medicare patients and opting out of insurance
• Best practices for setting up private contracting and legal documentation
• How to handle reimbursement policies and avoid common legal pitfalls

After this module: You’ll be protected, proactive, and ready to launch without legal blind spots or unexpected compliance issues.

3. Practice Logistics

Now we get into the fun part—actually building your dream practice. This module helps you plan your clinic’s foundation, from structure to systems.

You’ll learn:

• How to structure your business and choose the right legal entity
• Financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting for growth and sustainability
• Choosing the right location—rural, urban, or remote-friendly setups
• Building your clinic space: opening supplies, furnishings, and workflow design
• Staffing essentials and what to look for in a lean DPC team
• How to manage appointment scheduling, streamline workflows, and prioritize patient communication

After this module: You’ll have a practical plan, a solid operating structure, and a real checklist for opening your doors with confidence.

4. Infrastructure and Vendor Management

From tech tools to lab services, this module teaches you how to build a clinic that runs smoothly—without breaking the bank.

You’ll learn:

• How to select the best EHR and subscription billing platforms for DPC
• Tips for maintaining network security and protecting patient data
• Where to source affordable medical supplies and pharmaceuticals at wholesale rates
• How to leverage labs, diagnostic services, and imaging discounts
• Effective vendor negotiation strategies to keep costs low and service quality high
• How to build relationships with specialists and referral partners in your network

After this module: You’ll know how to create a lean, tech-savvy, low-overhead practice that supports quality care and a sustainable lifestyle.

5. Custom Business Plan

Your vision, your practice, your plan. This is where it all comes together and gets personalized to your goals.

You’ll learn:

• How to write a personalized business plan that aligns with your mission and revenue goals
• How to define your target patient volume and set realistic benchmarks
• Estimating revenue streams and setting a sustainable salary
• How to leverage local and regional demographic data for strategic planning

After this module: You’ll walk away with a well-crafted business plan you actually believe in—and the financial strategy to back it up.

6. Marketing Strategies

Marketing doesn’t have to feel slimy. We’ll show you how to tell your story, promote your practice authentically, and grow your patient panel with integrity.

You’ll learn:

• How to create a brand that communicates trust and transparency
• What media talking points resonate with potential patients and employers
• How to structure pricing tiers and membership models that support retention
• Strategies for patient acquisition through digital and local channels
• How to build loyalty through meaningful, ongoing patient engagement

After this module: You’ll know how to market your practice with purpose—and grow your community without gimmicks.

7. Contracting Directly with Employers

Want to grow your income without seeing more patients? Employer contracts are a game changer—and we show you exactly how to make them work.

You’ll learn:

• Different agreement structures and how to present value to business owners
• How to tailor service models and pricing for small businesses and mid-size employers
• Legal and regulatory considerations for group contracting
• How to collaborate with benefits brokers to increase your reach
• What to consider when evaluating large employer contracts

After this module: You’ll be able to pitch, price, and manage employer partnerships with confidence—adding consistent revenue without sacrificing care quality.

8. Being Part of a DPC Network

You’re never alone in the DPC world. This module introduces you to supportive networks and strategic affiliations that help practices grow.

You’ll learn:

• Why joining a DPC network like Access Healthcare Direct can help you grow faster
• What qualifications and agreements are typically involved
• How networks support marketing, patient referrals, and operational improvements
• How to evaluate the cost and value of different DPC network partnerships

After this module: You’ll know how to connect with a community that supports your mission and multiplies your impact.

9. Timeline of Launch

Last but not least: execution. You’ll turn everything you’ve learned into a step-by-step launch plan that’s realistic and motivating.

You’ll learn:

• How to create a realistic, personalized launch timeline for your clinic
• A final “To Do” list with action steps in the 90 days before opening
• Common missteps that delay DPC launches—and how to avoid them

After this module: You’ll be equipped with the tools, calendar, and clarity to confidently launch your practice—and hit the ground running.

What You’ll Walk Away With:

• A complete business plan, legal playbook, and marketing strategy tailored to DPC
• Systems for scheduling, billing, staffing, and managing patients with ease
• A fully thought-out pricing and membership model that fits your goals and values
• The confidence to leave the insurance-based grind and practice medicine on your terms
• A roadmap for launching and scaling your DPC clinic with vision and purpose
• The skills to serve patients better, with more time, more connection, and better health outcomes

Ready to make medicine meaningful again? Let DPC University be your launchpad.

Start building your dream practice today.