American College of Private Physicians Officially Launches

The Newly Formed National Organization Is Set to Offer Direct/Concierge Practitioners Support and Educational Opportunities Through Expanded Membership

American College of Private Physicians Officially Launches

<0> ACPPWilliam Ross, executive director855-332-5120 </0>

The American College of Private Physicians (ACPP) today announced that they have started operations.

“The movement initially labeled and widely recognized as ‘concierge’ medicine and today often called ‘direct or private practice’ is almost 20 years old and growing exponentially,” said ACPP President Thomas W. LaGrelius.

According to LaGrelius, the ACPP was created specifically for physicians already established in an active direct practice and it will be run by them through a member-elected board. The ACPP will network and serve an estimated 10,000 physicians who are successfully running direct practices of all designs. Members will be showcased to the nation, credentialed and described to the millions of patients now seeking care. Educational programs and advocacy to employers, unions and the government for practice designs, as well as general support of direct practice, will characterize the ACPP. However, it will not act as a conversion program.

“The common thread in our varied practice designs is a direct financial relationship between patient and physician. Direct practice doctors provide truly patient-centered care,” added LaGrelius. “This offers more time, attention and a personal, welcoming medical home for members. Direct practice is helping doctors take back control of their profession. However, we are in desperate need of an effective national professional society.”

“Advocacy and a strong public voice are important aspects of our charter. We have strong representation with both state and national governments to educate politicians on the benefits of direct practice,” said Marcy Zwelling, M.D., ACPP secretary and treasurer.

“We will show the public and policy makers that the work we do is not just for those who can easily afford it, but must be made the standard and a viable choice for primary care everywhere. Primary care cannot be seen as purely transactional, but based on the relationships that promote trust and confidence between doctor and patient. This is ultimately the best way to lower cost, enhance quality, prevent medical errors and improve satisfaction. Another ACPP goal is to further expand the now limited research data base to document the qualities and benefits of direct practice. Only one peer-reviewed study proving the great value of direct practice has been published,” she added.

More information on this study is available here:

Membership is now open to all eligible physicians and doctors. A copy of the membership application can be found at or by contacting the ACPP at 855-332-5120.