Editor’s Note: We spoke with Dr. Michele Gero, a Board-Certified Family Medicine physician who owns Aspire Direct Primary Care located at 415 Commercial Court, Suite C, in Venice (close to Jacaranda and I-75). Call 941-800-1630 for a free consultation, appointment or to schedule a free meet and greet with Dr. Gero. Watch the short video at AspireDirectPrimaryCare.com to learn about Direct Primary Care.
How does Direct Primary Care (DPC) work and what are the benefits?
Direct Primary Care is modern medicine with an old-fashioned delivery. I work for my patients, not insurance companies or large healthcare organizations. Benefits include same or next day appointments, longer visits, unlimited visits with no copays, and the ability to reach me after hours. Services include annual visits, women’s health, child and adolescent care, chronic disease management, work and school physicals, and unlimited sick visits. I care for patients of all ages.
How is the DPC approach different from concierge medicine?
The cost for DPC is much less. Monthly rates are typically less than a person’s gym membership. Concierge physicians usually bill your insurance and require copays on top of their yearly fee. With DPC, your membership pays for all the care I can provide without additional fees.
Why did you leave a larger group practice to develop a Direct Primary Care practice?
DPC allows me to spend quality time with my patients and address multiple concerns when needed. I am able to provide the best care in an environment that isn’t rushed, and my visits aren’t limited by insurance companies or administration. It’s the same personalized medicine I remember growing up with my own family physician.
How are your patients responding to your personal approach?
They appreciate that they are a member of a true family practice. They are like members of my family and I pay attention to their specific needs and related concerns. Aspire DPC reflects my highest aspirations for providing the best medical care for every member of the family.
Where did you complete your medical education and residency?
I’m from a small rural town in upstate New York near the border of Canada. I attended SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse and completed my residency there as well. My husband and I moved to Wallingford, Connecticut after graduation, where I owned a practice for 7 years. In 2011, he was offered his dream job in Venice, moving our family to Florida. We love living in the area.
What would you like to share about your family and other interests?
My husband and I stay busy supporting our three children in their sports and hobbies. I enjoy reading and doing different crafting projects in my free time.
