For many patients, traditional primary care can feel rushed. Appointments are brief. Wait times can be long. Access after hours may be limited. In response to these challenges, alternative primary care models have emerged that focus on smaller practice sizes and preventive care.
One of the most widely studied of these models is MDVIP, a personalized, membership-based approach to primary care. Here in New Braunfels, Dr. Jason Nelson offers this model through his MDVIP-affiliated practice.
So what does the research actually say about how MDVIP practices compare to conventional primary care?
In a study published in The Open Public Health Journal titled “The Impact of a Personalized Preventive Care Model vs. the Conventional Healthcare Model on Patient Satisfaction,” 97% of patients in MDVIP practices reported satisfaction with their relationship with their physician. By comparison, 58% of patients in traditional primary care reported similar satisfaction.
The same study found that 95–96% of MDVIP patients were satisfied with the personalized approach to their health needs, compared to 69% of conventional primary care patients.
The study, based on surveys of more than 16,000 MDVIP members and comparisons to conventional care patients, also reported that MDVIP patients were:
- More satisfied with their ability to schedule appointments within 48 hours (85–87% vs. 55%)
- More satisfied with reaching their physician during office hours (90–91% vs. 53%)
- More satisfied with after-hours access (71–74% vs. 31%)
- More likely to wait less than 10 minutes in the waiting room (78–79% vs. 41%)
- More confident in their physician’s approach to their care (79–80% vs. 61%)
The report concluded that the MDVIP model enables a stronger patient-physician relationship compared to conventional healthcare settings.
Beyond patient satisfaction, MDVIP has also been studied for its impact on healthcare utilization.
A two-year study published in The American Journal of Managed Care examined 2,300 Medicare Advantage patients in MDVIP-affiliated practices and compared them to similar patients in traditional primary care.
The study reported:
- A 20% reduction in emergency room visits in the first year and 24% in the second year
- A 19% reduction in inpatient admissions over two years
- An estimated $3.7 million in reduced medical utilization across the study population
On average, savings were reported at $86.68 per patient per month in year one and $47.03 per patient per month in year two compared to non-members in traditional practices.
Additional published research has noted lower hospitalization and readmission rates among patients receiving care from MDVIP-affiliated physicians, particularly for chronic conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.
While outcomes vary by individual and no healthcare model can guarantee specific results, these studies suggest that a preventive, relationship-centered approach may influence utilization patterns and patient engagement.
The MDVIP model is built around smaller practice sizes, typically capped at around 600 patients compared to the 2,000–3,000 patients often seen in conventional primary care.
This structure allows for:
- Longer appointments (often 30–90 minutes)
- Same- or next-day scheduling
- 24/7 physician availability for urgent matters
- A comprehensive annual wellness program
- Advanced screenings and diagnostic tests that go beyond those typically covered by insurance
Patients continue to use their insurance for covered services. The annual membership fee supports expanded preventive services and enhanced access.
Dr. Jason Nelson has served New Braunfels families for more than 25 years. In recent years, he transitioned his practice to the MDVIP model to provide what he describes as a more prevention-focused and personalized approach to care.
Located at 1441 Whispering Woods Trail, his MDVIP-affiliated practice emphasizes:
- Cardiovascular health
- Metabolic syndrome and diabetes management
- Nutrition and weight management
- Hormonal health
- Sleep quality
- Pediatric and general family medicine
Patients in his practice receive access to longer visits, advanced screenings, and same- or next-day appointments. Dr. Nelson is also available after hours and on weekends for urgent matters, a feature highlighted in MDVIP research as a driver of patient satisfaction.
In addition to his private practice, Dr. Nelson is affiliated with CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital, Resolute Hospital, and New Braunfels Regional Rehabilitation Hospital, where he serves as President of the Medical Board.
Healthcare decisions are personal, and no single model fits every patient. Some individuals prioritize lower upfront costs and traditional insurance structures. Others may value enhanced access, extended visit times, and a structured preventive wellness program.
The published MDVIP research indicates high patient satisfaction and measurable differences in utilization compared to conventional primary care practices. For New Braunfels residents exploring alternatives to traditional primary care, Dr. Nelson’s MDVIP-affiliated practice represents one such option.
Those interested in learning more can visit his website or call 830-402-7454 to request additional information.