Why Primary Care Matters: The $67 Billion Opportunity We’re Missing

In today’s healthcare landscape, one staggering figure stands out: the U.S. could save an estimated $67 billion annually if every patient saw their primary care provider (PCP) as recommended. This isn’t just about numbers—it’s about access, prevention, and rethinking how we use the healthcare system.

At Connected Health, this is exactly why we exist. We built our model around a simple idea: if patients had better access to their primary care provider—when they need it, without jumping through hoops—they’d be healthier, and the system would be more efficient for everyone.

Where the System Breaks Down

The traditional primary care funnel is flawed, and patients fall through at two critical points:

1. The Beginning: Many people skip primary care entirely and head straight to urgent care or the ER for acute issues. It’s faster and often feels like the only option when you’re sick and can’t get a same-day appointment.
2. The End: Others bypass their PCP and go directly to a specialist, sometimes unnecessarily. Without a coordinated care approach, this leads to fragmented care, duplicated tests, and rising costs.

What’s driving these choices? Common assumptions:

• “I won’t be able to get in quickly enough.”
• “My issue is too urgent to wait.”
• “It’s easier just to go elsewhere.”

And unfortunately, in most systems, those assumptions aren’t wrong.

Changing the Model

Connected Health was designed to fix this. We eliminate the barriers that make traditional primary care inaccessible or frustrating. Our concierge care means you have a provider who knows you, is available when you need them, and can guide you across the entire healthcare journey—from prevention to diagnosis to treatment.

No more guessing who to call. No more waiting weeks for an appointment. No more disjointed care plans.

We believe primary care should be the first call, not the last resort.

The Bigger Picture

Imagine if more people had that kind of access. We’d see:

• Fewer ER visits and hospitalizations
• Earlier detection of chronic conditions
• Lower prescription drug costs
• Less strain on specialists
• And yes, tens of billions in national healthcare savings

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Primary care isn’t just a box to check. It’s the foundation of good health. And when done right, it’s the most efficient and cost-effective way to care for people.

We’re proud to be part of the solution.