Maryland questions concierge practices

Certain models of the concierge practice method of medicine could be construed as engaging in the insurance business, according to a report issued by the Maryland Insurance Administration.

The most popular concierge model-which charges patients an annual fee of $1,200 or more for a comprehensive physical exam and wellness plan, yet still charges for individual office visits and other treatments-does not constitute a form of insurance.

But concierge practices that offer unlimited office visits-including a physical-for an annual fee and don't limit the number of patients, could be construed as engaging in the insurance business, because the fee would be viewed as a capitation payment.