Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

This page answers common questions about Pearl Primary Care, including how our membership model works, what to expect as a patient, and whether this type of care is a good fit for you. If you’re exploring a more personal approach to primary care in Colorado Springs, these answers are a good place to start.

What this practice is

These questions explain the structure and philosophy of Pearl Primary Care, including how our practice is different from traditional primary care offices and who this model is designed to serve.

Pearl Primary Care is a physician-led primary care practice in Colorado Springs that operates on a membership-based model. Patients pay a monthly fee that allows for more personalized care, longer visits, and a stronger ongoing relationship with their physician.

Pearl Primary Care differs from traditional primary care practices that rely on insurance billing for each visit. By removing many of the administrative constraints of insurance-based care, we can focus on thoughtful, relationship-based medicine rather than patient volume.

Membership-based primary care means patients pay a predictable monthly fee for access to their primary care physician and the services included in their membership. This structure supports longer visits, better communication, easier access to care, and a more personalized healthcare experience.

While both models emphasize personalized care, Direct Primary Care and concierge medicine are different practice models. Pearl Primary Care is a Direct Primary Care practice designed to be more accessible and transparent, without large upfront fees or per-visit billing.

Direct Primary Care is designed for people who want a more personal, accessible relationship with their physician. It can be an excellent fit for individuals, couples, families, busy professionals, retirees, caregivers, and anyone looking for longer appointments, easier communication, and greater continuity of care. At Pearl Primary Care, we believe healthcare works best when your physician knows you, understands your health goals, and has the time to provide thoughtful, relationship-based care over the long term.

Care, access, and appointments

These questions explain how care works in practice, including appointment access, communication, and what patients can expect when they need medical support.

Appointments are scheduled directly with the practice and are designed to allow adequate time for each patient. Visits are not rushed, and care is focused on understanding concerns thoroughly rather than moving quickly from one appointment to the next.

Yes. One of the benefits of a membership-based model is improved access to communication between visits. Patients can reach out with questions or concerns without waiting for the next scheduled appointment.

There are no visit limits based on insurance billing. Patients can schedule appointments as needed for ongoing care, follow-ups, or new concerns, based on medical appropriateness. It’s all included in your monthly membership.

 

Yes. Pearl Primary Care provides primary care for individuals, couples, and families. Our physicians care for patients across every stage of life, from children to older adults, with an emphasis on personalized, relationship-based care and long-term health.

Yes. We provide school and sports physicals as part of your Pearl Primary Care membership. Because these visits are included, families can often complete required forms and annual physicals without the added cost or inconvenience of visiting an urgent care clinic.

Yes. Pearl Primary Care provides routine women’s health and preventive care, including wellness visits, Pap smears, lab review, medication management, and support for common women’s health concerns. Many patients are surprised to learn that these services can often be handled through primary care. We do not provide pregnancy care or deliver babies, but we will help coordinate care with an OB-GYN or specialist when needed.

Pearl Primary Care uses a shared physician panel designed around convenience, continuity, and timely access to care. While you’re welcome to request either Dr. Rachael Degurse or Dr. Victoria Mallon, you’ll generally have the flexibility to see the first available physician without having to repeat your medical history or re-establish your care.

 

Pearl Primary Care coordinates with specialists and hospitals when additional care is needed. Referrals and guidance are provided to help patients navigate care outside the practice while maintaining continuity.

Yes. The practice is well-suited for patients managing chronic or complex health conditions who benefit from continuity, longer visits, and an ongoing relationship with their physician.

Insurance, cost, and payment

These questions address how insurance fits into our model, how membership works financially, and what to expect when it comes to costs and payments.

Membership pricing varies based on age and individual needs. Full details and current pricing are outlined on our Membership & Pricing page, where everything is explained clearly and transparently.

Membership includes ongoing primary care with your physician, longer visits when needed, easier access to care, and appointments as medically appropriate. The goal is to provide comprehensive primary care without the constraints of per-visit billing.

Most primary care services are included in the membership. Some services, such as certain procedures, labs, or medications, may involve additional costs, which are discussed openly in advance.

Pearl Primary Care does not bill health insurance for membership or visits. Instead, care is provided through a monthly membership, which allows us to focus on patients rather than insurance requirements or visit quotas.

Yes. While Pearl Primary Care does not bill insurance directly, patients may still use their insurance for labs, imaging, hospital services, and specialist care outside the practice. We’ll help coordinate your care and make sure you understand exactly who to see, what to expect, and what comes next.

Yes. Colorado allows eligible individuals to use Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) to pay for Direct Primary Care memberships. Many patients choose to use pre-tax HSA or FSA funds to cover their monthly membership.

As with any tax-advantaged account, patients should confirm eligibility with their plan administrator.

Logistics and practical questions

These questions cover location, eligibility, and other practical details to help you determine whether Pearl Primary Care fits your needs.

Pearl Primary Care is located at 160 W Fillmore St, Colorado Springs, CO 80907, just east of the I-25 Fillmore exit. And yes, there’s a Starbucks right across the street!

Pearl Primary Care serves patients throughout the Colorado Springs region, including North and Northwest areas such as Northgate, Flying Horse, Briargate, Pine Creek, Cordera, Rockrimmon, University Village, and Northeast Colorado Springs. We also care for patients in Central Colorado Springs, including The Old North End, Kissing Camels, Garden of the Gods, and the Fillmore & I-25 corridor.

We welcome patients from West and Southwest Colorado Springs, including Old Colorado City, West Colorado Springs, Broadmoor, and Cheyenne Mountain, as well as East Colorado Springs and the Front Range, including the Powers Corridor, Stetson Hills, Marksheffel, and Falcon. We also serve South and Southeast communities such as Security-Widefield and Fountain.

 

Yes. Many patients at Pearl Primary Care are retirees or individuals enrolled in Medicare. The membership model works alongside Medicare, which can still be used for services outside the practice such as labs, imaging, and hospital care.

Patients who travel or live part-time in other locations can often continue care through remote communication when appropriate. In-person care is coordinated when patients are in the area.

Yes. Memberships are not long-term contracts. If your needs change, you can cancel your membership according to the terms outlined in your membership agreement.