Mercy Physicians Change Course, Opt for DPC Model in Rogers

Two area doctors have leased space in Rogers to open a new clinic utilizing the direct primary care model for health care.

Drs. Joel Fankhauser and Dan Weeden are leaving Mercy Health Systems to open Direct Care Clinic of Northwest Arkansas. The clinic will be in a 1,593-SF space at 2103 S. 54th St. in the Village on the Creeks development.

The lease term is for five years. The clinic will open Jan. 5.

Fankhauser said he expects he and Weeden will each have about 700 patients, which is about one-third of what a typical doctor has.

Essentially, DPC practices do not take health insurance but, in exchange for a direct cash payment of $100 or less per month, offer enhanced access to primary care services.

DPC physicians often offer same-day appointments, longer office visits, email communication and on-site X-rays.

“I decided to pursue this model when it became clear to me that our current system encourages physicians to overbook themselves, which encourages shorter visits, which means I have less time than necessary to address the true health concerns of a family or individual,” Fankhauser said. “This model allows me to have time and margin in my day to provide high-quality care to my patients in a way that is cost effective and affordable.”

Fankhauser added the two doctors plan on continuing to “work well” with Mercy in the event a hospital visit is required.

Steve Fineberg & Associates of Bentonville represented the doctors in the lease agreement.

Colliers International of Bentonville represented Village on the Creeks.