Everything You Need to Know to Start Your Direct Specialty Care Practice — in 14 Lectures

The complete, definitive explanation of the DSC model — what it is, how it works, what the physician-patient relationship looks like, and what replaces the insurance company's role. Written and delivered by the physician who helped define the term. The foundational lecture every physician in this course needs.

The three most searched comparison in direct care — and the most commonly confused. This lecture explains each model clearly, shows exactly how they differ in structure and fee, and explains why DSC is the specialist-specific evolution of the direct care movement. Answers the question 'Is this just concierge medicine?' directly and definitively.

The most common first question from specialist physicians. This lecture walks through which specialties work well in DSC, which require additional structure, and why nearly every specialist who is motivated to make the transition can find a viable DSC model for their field. Includes examples from rheumatology, cardiology, neurology, hematology/oncology, podiatry, ENT, and more.

Flat consultation fee vs. monthly membership vs. hybrid model. Telemedicine vs. in-person vs. both. Solo vs. group. This lecture helps physicians identify which specific practice structure fits their specialty, their geography, and their personal goals. By the end, each physician has a clear picture of what their DSC practice would look like.

How do you actually make the move? This lecture covers the transition strategies DSC physicians have used — from leaving employed positions to converting existing patients, managing the opt-out notification process, and handling the financial bridge period between your last insurance payment and your first DSC revenue. Real strategies from physicians who have made the leap.

A practical, specific pre-launch checklist. Not abstract principles — ten concrete considerations covering legal structure, malpractice, patient communication, fee setting, technology, and more. Every physician who completes this lecture leaves with a clear picture of what needs to be in place before they open their practice.

The complete DSC launch journey — every stage, in order. From initial decision to legal setup, to first patient, to growing the practice. This lecture is the bridge between understanding DSC and building it. It introduces what each stage requires and maps directly to the resources available inside Alliance membership for physicians who are ready to go further.

An educational overview of the two most common business structures for DSC physicians — what each one is, how they differ in liability and taxation, and which states require specific structures for physicians. This lecture gives physicians the foundational knowledge to have a productive conversation with their attorney. The state-specific opt-out guides and contract templates are inside Alliance membership.

What the Direct Care Contract is, why it exists, what it must include, and how it protects both the physician and the patient. This lecture explains the structure and purpose of the contract — the conceptual and legal foundation of every DSC practice. The actual attorney-reviewed contract templates are inside Alliance membership.

What changes about malpractice coverage when you leave an institution or employed position. Claims-made vs. occurrence policies. Tail coverage — what it is, when you need it, and how to estimate the cost. The key questions to ask when obtaining quotes as an independent specialist. One of the most commonly misunderstood topics in the DSC transition — covered clearly and practically.

A conversation with two leading voices in direct care and healthcare innovation. Where is the DSC movement going? What does the next five years look like for specialist physicians who practice outside the insurance system? What is the opportunity — and the risk — for physicians who wait? The inspiring final lecture — and the natural bridge to Alliance membership for physicians who are ready to build.