Welcome to Vertical Primary Care: Redefining Your Healthcare Experience

Derek Wellock • January 19, 2025
Logo for Vertical Primary Care with a thin line and cursive tagline on a white background

I’m thrilled to introduce Vertical Primary Care , a Direct Primary Care (DPC) practice built around the belief that healthcare should be accessible, transparent, and focused on you.

At Vertical Primary Care, I take a comprehensive approach to your well-being. A DPC model allows me to offer a wide range of services tailored to meet your needs, without the constraints of traditional insurance-driven care.

Here’s what’s provided to help you live your healthiest life:

Personalized, Accessible Care

  • Unlimited Office Visits : See your provider whenever you need, whether it’s a quick check-in or a more in-depth consultation.
  • Extended Appointment Times : Get the time and attention you deserve—our appointments are never rushed.
  • Telemedicine Access : Connect with your provider via phone, video, or text for convenient care wherever you are.

Comprehensive Primary Care Services

  • Preventive Health : Routine check-ups, screenings, and wellness planning to help you stay ahead of potential health issues.
  • Chronic Disease Management : Personalized care plans for conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and asthma, with ongoing support to help you thrive.
  • Acute Care : Same-day or next-day appointments for illnesses and injuries, so you don’t have to wait when it matters most.
  • Mental Health Support : Compassionate care for anxiety, depression, and stress, with resources and referrals when needed.
  • Women’s Health : Services like annual exams, contraception counseling, and menopause management.
  • Men’s Health : Proactive care tailored to men’s unique health concerns. 

Why Choose Direct Primary Care?

Unlike traditional practices that are often limited by insurance requirements, Vertical Primary Care operates on a membership model. This allows us to:

  • Spend more time with you.
  • Offer transparent, affordable pricing.
  • Build a lasting relationship focused on your unique needs and goals.

I believe healthcare should be simple, compassionate, and empowering. Vertical Primary Care is here to provide the high-quality care you deserve, whether it’s maintaining your health, managing a chronic condition, or supporting you through life’s unexpected challenges.

I’d love to share more about how Vertical Primary Care can partner with you on your health journey. If you’re interested in learning more, please contact me at cwellock@verticalprimarycare.com  

Here’s to your health!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Direct Primary Care (DPC)?

DPC is a healthcare model where patients pay a flat monthly membership fee for unlimited access to their primary care provider, without the restrictions or complications of insurance-based care.

2. Does DPC replace health insurance?

No, DPC is not a replacement for insurance. It is recommended to maintain a high-deductible health plan for emergencies or specialized care outside of primary care.

3. Can I still use my health insurance if I see a DPC Provider?

Yes, I will not bill or collect from any insurance company, but outpatient labs, imaging, urgent care and hospital services may all be covered by your insurance. 

4. What if I have a Medicare, Medicaid or HMO plan? 

I can see medicare patients, but only after I’ve opted out of medicare as a provider and the patient will need to sign a waiver declaring that neither you nor your provider will directly bill Medicare for services provided. Medicare should still cover labs, imaging, medications, referrals once this is completed. 

Medicaid and HMO plans tend to be very strict about seeing Medicaid and HMO providers only. I cannot write labs, imaging, referrals, or medications for these plans typically, unless I’m a contracted provider through the insurance. You may want to contact your insurance if you do not know if you have a PPO or a HMO plan and what your options are for selecting a primary care provider. 

5. What does the membership fee cover?

The fee covers unlimited visits, extended appointment times, direct communication with your provider, and many in-office services, including procedures.

6. Can I still see specialists if needed?

Yes, there will be coordinated referrals to trusted specialists and work closely with them to ensure your care is seamless and comprehensive.

7. What ages will you see? 

Age 12 and older. 

8. What if I decide to cancel my membership? 

I understand needs may change, and I want to help you through whatever transition you are making. The membership is month to month. If you need to cancel, please provide written notice 30 days in advance. 

9. Will you have non-membership options

Yes. I understand the month to month membership may not fit all needs. Some individuals would like to be seen once a year for an annual. Non-member agreements do not include multiple visits, telehealth, phone services, medication refills, ongoing chronic disease management. Acute visits may be available, depending on the schedule. Members of course get priority. 

Pricing

Membership Options

Our membership includes all the services mentioned above, with priority access to appointment times and availability.

Standard Membership

  • Ages 12–18: $75/month
  • Ages 19+: $149/month

Double Edge Membership (for Double Edge Fitness members)

  • Ages 12–18: $49/month
  • Ages 19+: $99/month


Non-Membership Pricing

For patients who prefer a pay-as-you-go option, appointments may be limited and availability is not guaranteed:

  • Establishment of Care (Initial Visit) : $250 if you are establishing care for an annual or with an acute concern, this includes the cost of the annual and/or acute visit. Any subsequent prices for annuals or acute visits are listed below. 
  • Annual Visit : $250
    (Includes a detailed medical history review, annual preventive care, lab and imaging orders, and follow-up on results.)
  • Acute Visits : $85–$150 depending on complexity and tests performed. You must still establish yourself as a patient to receive acute care. 
  • B12 Shots : $25
  • Trigger Point Injections : $150
  • Ear Wax Removal : $50
  • Cryotherapy : $50-$100 depending on number of skin lesions. 

Get to know me 

I have called the Reno area home for 20 years. I grew up on a small farm in Helena, Montana, and moved to Reno in 2004 to attend the University of Nevada, Reno, where I earned my Bachelor of Science in 2009. In 2012, I completed my Master’s of Physician Assistant Studies at Touro University in Henderson, Nevada.

After graduation, I began my career in Primary Care and Internal Medicine, spending seven years in Internal Medicine before transitioning to Family Medicine. With 12 years of experience in Primary Care, I am passionate about providing compassionate and personalized care to every patient I see. I also focus on preventive medicine, aiming to educate and empower patients to take charge of their health. My goal is to prevent or reverse disease whenever possible, moving beyond reactive care to a proactive approach that supports each patient’s best quality of life.

In my practice, I strive to help patients achieve happiness, well-being, physical function, and a life free from debilitating conditions as they age. Direct Primary Care allows me to maintain a meaningful provider-patient relationship without the interference of middlemen. By keeping my patient panel small, I can ensure quality care, dedicated time with each patient, and ready access to medical services. 

As a Physician Assistant, I work under a supervising physician to ensure quality healthcare is maintained. Dr. Robbie Grant and I share a professional and respectful relationship rooted in mutual trust and a shared dedication to patient-centered care. As the supervising physician, Dr. Grant provides oversight, mentorship, and clinical guidance to ensure the highest standards of care are delivered. I value Dr. Grant’s expertise and collaborative input.

Dr. Grant helps oversee the clinic’s operations, ensuring a smooth workflow and adherence to medical protocols. Together, we create an environment where teamwork thrives, patient care is prioritized, and open communication is the foundation of our partnership. 

Interested in learning more? Visit https://www.verticalprimarycare.com

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