How DPC Can Help Manage Your Smallpox

Updated on: December 03, 2023

There is a serious and contagious disease known as smallpox caused by the variola virus, which can cause high fever, headaches, body aches, scarring, and rash. Although smallpox was eradicated from the world in 1980, it is still at risk from bioterrorist attacks. Then you will need immediate and effective medical care to prevent complications and death.

Joining a Direct Primary Care practice (DPC) is the best way to get the care you need in case of a smallpox outbreak. DPCs are primary care models that offer a meaningful alternative to fee-for-service insurance billing. In DPC, you pay a monthly or annual fee to your doctor, who then provides you with unlimited access, personalized care, and preventive services. If you use a DPC doctor, you can get medications, labs, and imaging at wholesale prices, which will save you money.

The Benefits of DPC for Smallpox Patients

DPC offers many benefits for smallpox patients, such as:

  • DPC allows you to schedule an appointment with your doctor the same day or the next day by calling, emailing, or texting. There's no need to wait weeks or months to see your doctor, or go to the emergency room or urgent care where others might contract the disease. If you are not already immune to smallpox, your doctor can diagnose the condition quickly, prescribe antiviral medications, and monitor your progress.

  • In DPC, you maintain a long-term relationship with your doctor who knows your medical history, preferences, and goals. If you have smallpox, your doctor can provide you with comprehensive and coordinated care, as well as help you manage any chronic illnesses or other health problems you may have. To ensure you receive the best care, your doctor can also refer you to specialists or hospitals if necessary.

  • A DPC physician has more time to spend with you, listen to your concerns, and address your needs. Your doctor can also provide you with high-quality care with the help of the latest evidence-based guidelines and technology. You can also give feedback to your doctor, and help improve the quality of care in your DPC practice, as well as follow up with your doctor regularly to prevent complications and infections. Your doctor can also help you prevent complications or infections from smallpox.

Personalized Smallpox Management in DPC

In DPC, your doctor can tailor your smallpox management plan according to your specific situation and goals. For example, your doctor can:

  • Your doctor can prescribe medications, offer counseling, or suggest other resources to help you heal and recover from smallpox.

  • Provide you with reliable information about smallpox transmission, prevention, and treatment. In addition to answering your questions, your doctor can dispel myths, and explain your rights and responsibilities as a smallpox patient, such as isolation, quarantine, and reporting.

  • Support you in making informed decisions about your smallpox care, such as getting vaccinated, participating in clinical trials, or donating blood or tissue samples. Having your doctor explain the benefits and risks of each option is a good way to respect your choices. Your doctor can also help you plan for the future, such as updating your will, advance directives, or insurance policies.

As you can see, DPC can help you manage your smallpox in a way that is convenient, affordable, and personalized. By joining a DPC practice, you can be prepared for a smallpox emergency, and get the best care possible.

As Benjamin Franklin said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

Published on: December 03, 2023