Online primary care pricing has evolved significantly from the "pay-per-visit" model of early telehealth. Today there are multiple pricing structures — some quite affordable for the uninsured, and some competitive with (or cheaper than) traditional care even with insurance. Understanding these models helps you find one that matches your budget and care needs.
Pricing Models
Pay-Per-Visit
Traditional visit-based pricing. You pay for each consultation as needed.
- Self-pay: $50–$150 per visit depending on complexity
- With insurance: copay or cost-sharing per your plan
- Best for: low-frequency users who want flexibility without commitment
Direct Primary Care (DPC) Membership
Subscription model where you pay a monthly membership fee for unlimited or near-unlimited primary care access. No billing insurance per visit — the membership covers most care.
- Typical monthly cost: $50–$150/month for individuals; $100–$250 for families
- Often includes unlimited virtual visits, same-day or next-day scheduling, direct messaging access to your physician, and lab ordering
- Does not cover specialist visits, hospital care, or procedures — you still need insurance or a health sharing plan for those
- Best for: people who use primary care frequently or want a close, accessible physician relationship
Insurance-Integrated Telehealth
Some insurers include telehealth primary care through their plan — often at $0 copay or standard PCP copay. Check your specific plan.
- Copay: $0–$30 depending on plan
- Available through major insurers' affiliated telehealth platforms
- May limit provider continuity — you may see different providers each visit
Cost Comparison: Online vs In-Person Primary Care
| Visit Type | Online Self-Pay | In-Person Self-Pay | With Insurance (copay) |
|---|---|---|---|
| New patient visit | $75–$150 | $200–$400 | $20–$50 in-person / $0–$30 virtual |
| Established patient follow-up | $50–$100 | $150–$300 | $20–$40 |
| Annual wellness visit | $75–$150 | $200–$400 | $0 (preventive, when covered) |
| DPC membership (monthly) | $50–$150/month | N/A | In addition to or instead of insurance |
Lab Costs
Lab work ordered through virtual primary care is processed at standard lab rates (Quest, LabCorp, or equivalent). With insurance, lab costs are subject to your plan's cost-sharing. Without insurance, direct-pay lab pricing is available and can be significantly lower than billed rates.
- Basic metabolic panel: $20–$60 (self-pay discount)
- Complete blood count (CBC): $20–$50
- Lipid panel: $20–$50
- Thyroid panel: $30–$80
- Comprehensive metabolic + CBC + lipids bundle: $40–$100
What Is Not Included in Online Primary Care Costs
- Specialist referral fees (specialist visits billed separately)
- Imaging and diagnostic procedures
- Hospital care
- Medications (except in DPC models that include medications)
- Vaccination administration (requires in-person)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is online primary care worth it without insurance?
For people without insurance, online primary care is often the most affordable path to quality routine care. A DPC membership at $70–$100/month provides comprehensive primary care access for less than the cost of two in-person visits per year at uninsured rates.
Can I use online primary care with a high-deductible health plan (HDHP)?
Yes — many people pair a DPC membership with a high-deductible plan that only activates for hospitalizations, surgeries, or major specialist care. This combination can be cost-effective for healthy individuals who primarily need primary care with occasional lab work.
Find Affordable Online Primary Care
Our comparison evaluates online primary care providers on pricing transparency, what is included in visit and membership fees, and overall value for different patient types.
Compare Online Primary Care Providers →