DIME Medical Brings Compassionate Care to Darlington, WI

The Top Three Direct Primary Care Doctors in Southern Wisconsin

Divine Mercy Medical Clinic (DIME Medical), located in Darlington, Wisconsin, brings direct primary care services with a Catholic perspective to the residents of Darlington, Wisconsin.

The clinic’s name and philosophy draw from the Divine Mercy Message, inspired by the writings of Saint Faustina Kowalska. This message underscores God’s enduring love and mercy, reflecting the clinic’s commitment to treating patients with profound compassion and dignity.

This approach not only resonates with their Christian faith but also with their medical practice, aiming to reveal the merciful nature of God through patient care.

At DIME Medical, the emphasis isn’t just on treating symptoms, but on emphasizing root cause analysis to effectively address the underlying issues of medical conditions.

The clinic is dedicated to providing care for all ages, from newborns to the elderly. The direct primary care approach facilitates a direct and trusting relationship between the physician and the patient, without the interference of insurance companies.

What is Direct Primary Care (DPC)?

Direct Primary Care (DPC) is a healthcare model that simplifies the way patients receive care by eliminating third-party insurance companies.

Instead, patients pay a monthly membership fee that covers most services provided by the clinic, ensuring full access to healthcare without additional costs for most in-clinic services.

The membership model provides patients with direct access to their doctor 24/7, enhancing the quality of care and patient satisfaction.

With direct primary care, there are no deductibles, copays, or co-insurance costs to see your doctor. All primary care services normally done in a doctor’s office are included in your monthly membership subscription.

The doctor and practice receive a steady stream of income from the subscription fees, and don’t need insurance companies anymore.

And thanks to the vast reduction in overhead from dropping insurance billing operations, The practice can function profitably with a much smaller patient load compared to traditional insurance-based primary and family care practices.

This model allows DIME Medical to offer straightforward, personal care at affordable rates directly to the patient.

By removing the insurance middleman, DPC helps reduce overall healthcare costs.

The practice doesn’t need to staff a large office of billing clerks who do nothing but process paperwork all day in an effort to get insurance companies to pay, while adding no value for the patient.

In fact, adding direct primary care rather than using an insurance-based practice for primary care services often results in savings on routine care and procedures.

Especially for those who need to see a doctor on a regular basis.

This innovative approach not only provides significant savings but also offers a more personal connection between patients and their healthcare provider.

This, in turn, leads to better health outcomes and a more satisfying healthcare experience.

Meet Dr. Robiolio

Dr. Michael Robiolio, MD brings more than 30 years of experience in family medicine to the Darlington community.

Board-certified by the National Board of Physicians & Surgeons and an active member of both the Association of American Physicians & Surgeons and the Catholic Medical Association, Dr. Robiolio’s extensive career is marked by a commitment to holistic and accessible healthcare.

After earning his medical degree from George Washington University School of Medicine and completing his residency in Family Medicine at Naval Hospital Jacksonville, Dr. Robiolio served in the United States Navy before settling in Darlington.

His time at Memorial Hospital of Lafayette County and its clinics since 1999 has been pivotal in shaping his patient-centric approach. Dr. Robiolio’s transition to DPC in 2020 marked a significant shift towards providing uninterrupted, quality care, focusing on preventative measures and comprehensive management of chronic conditions.

Services Offered

  • Primary and Family Medical Care Services. Covers all visits and ages, emphasizing chronic disease management for conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and mental health disorders.
  • Acute Care and Minor Procedures. Includes treatment for sudden illnesses, infections, skin lesions, and laceration repairs.
  • Routine Physicals and Wellness Checks. Offers pre-employment physicals, college and sports physicals, and general health assessments for men, women, and children.
  • In-Clinic Diagnostic Services. Complimentary in-clinic testing and basic lab services such as ECG, blood glucose testing, strep throat testing, and urinalysis.

Fertility Awareness and Natural Family Planning

DIME Medical is one of the leading proponents of natural family planning (NFP) in the region.

DIME Medical does not prescribe contraceptives, or recommend their use at all. The practice views the use of contraception as a departure from the natural purpose of sex, which is inherently oriented towards procreation (Cat. 2360 and following).

This is a reflection of the clinic’s philosophy that medical practice should aim to normalize physiological functions rather than alter them.

The clinic outlines several concerns associated with contraceptive methods, including potential health risks such as increased blood clotting, strokes, and hormonal imbalances that may contribute to cancer.

Additionally, they point out behavioral changes, environmental impacts, and societal effects like declining population growth rates as further reasons to reconsider contraception use.

Instead of contraception, DIME Medical advocates for fertility awareness and natural family planning (NFP), emphasizing natural methods that align with the body’s normal reproductive functions.

DIME Medical holds that avoiding contraception benefits both individual health and societal well-being, promoting a healthier approach to family planning that respects the natural body processes.

Membership Pricing for 2023-24

  • Adults: $55.00 per month ($660 annually)
  • Children: $27.50 per month ($330 annually)
  • Family: $165.00 per month ($1,980 annually), with a one-time registration fee of $50 per member (up to $150 per family).

Contact Information

  • Location: 340 Main Street Darlington, WI 5353040 ddMain StreetDarlington, WI
  • Phone: (608) 482-2005
  • Website: Visit Website

Roots MD Direct Care Family Medicine

Roots MD Direct Care Family Medicine, nestled in Verona, Wisconsin, is an example of innovative healthcare led by Dr. Amanda Preimesberger and Dr. Traese Kuhl.

They embrace the Direct Primary Care (DPC) model, which is rapidly gaining traction as a beneficial alternative to traditional health care systems.

The DPC approach allows Roots MD to offer more personalized, accessible, and unhurried medical services directly to patients, eliminating the complexities often introduced by insurance companies.

The philosophy behind Roots MD is deeply rooted in the concept of “medicine made simple,” striving to provide comprehensive medical care that addresses both immediate and long-term health needs.

By operating independently of insurance, the clinic ensures that all medical decisions are made solely based on what is best for the patient, promoting a healthier, more connected community in Verona.

Meet the Physicians

Dr. Amanda Preimesberger, MD, the founder of Roots MD, is a board-certified family physician with a profound commitment to the DPC model. Her approach is centered on building lasting relationships with patients, focusing on preventative care, and maintaining the autonomy of medical practice to serve patients without external interference.

Dr. Traese Kuhl, DO brings extensive expertise in family medicine to Roots MD, sharing a vision with Dr. Preimesberger for a healthcare environment that values patient-physician relationships above all. Her medical practice is characterized by a thorough, patient-first approach that seeks to understand and treat the underlying causes of health issues, not just the symptoms.

Services Offered

  • Chronic Disease Management: Effective management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and COPD.
  • Acute Care Services: Treatment for sudden illnesses and infections ensuring timely medical attention.
  • Preventative Care: Including well-woman, well-man, and well-child exams, sports physicals, and comprehensive annual physicals.
  • Minor Office Procedures: Including cryotherapy, laceration repairs, and skin biopsies.
  • In-Clinic Testing: Access to essential tests like ECGs, strep screens, and blood sugar checks at no additional cost.

These services are designed to be accessible and comprehensive, ensuring that patients receive the full spectrum of care without the worry of extra fees.

Membership Pricing

  • Adults: $55.00 per month or $660 annually
  • Children: $27.50 per month or $330 annually
  • Family Plan: $165.00 per month or $1,980 annually, accommodating two legal adults and their children.

The membership includes all visits and many procedures, with a one-time registration fee of $50 per member. Discounts are available for payments covering longer periods, up to 5% for annual payments.

Contact Information

Location: 300 E Verona Ave, Suite A, Verona, WI 53593

Phone: 608-541-8547

Website: Visit Website

Advocate MD- A Direct Primary Care Practice

Advocate MD, located in the heart of Madison, WI, is a pioneering Direct Primary Care (DPC) clinic that is transforming local healthcare by removing insurance and administrative barriers.

The DPC approach allows the clinic to prioritize quality time with patients, enhancing the doctor-patient relationship and allowing for thorough, unhurried consultations.

By offering direct access to physicians via phone, email, and in-person visits, and reducing the cost of medications, labs, procedures, and radiology, Advocate MD ensures that patients not only save money but also receive a higher standard of care compared to traditional fee-for-service systems.

Meet the Physicians at Advocate MD

Dr. Nicole T. Hemkes, MD, is a seasoned family physician with a diverse background in emergency departments, hospitalist settings, and traditional family medicine across various locations including inner city Chicago and rural Alaska. Her extensive experience has not only sharpened her medical skills but also deepened her empathy and commitment to healthcare. 

Dr. Hemkes is an advocate of the DPC model, believing it restores the essential physician-patient relationship. She is a resident of Madison, WI, enjoying life with her daughters Margo and Mona.

Dr. Michael Aughey, MD, originally from Wisconsin Rapids, WI, has returned to his roots after an illustrious career spanning over two decades in broad-spectrum Family Medicine.

Dr. Aughey is known for his belief in the sanctity of the patient-doctor relationship and his dedication to providing high-quality care. He and his wife Barb, along with their three children, are active in outdoor activities and reside in Sun Prairie, WI.

Dr. Adam Balin, MD, a graduate from the University of Missouri-Columbia, has extensive experience in Family Medicine including OB and inpatient care.

Dr. Balin is committed to spending more time with his patients and making decisions that are best for their health without administrative interference. He lives in Fitchburg, WI, with his wife Karin and enjoys fly fishing and camping.

Dr. Karen Shulman, MD, after over two decades of family practice in rural Wisconsin and administrative roles, has joined Advocate MD to focus on providing comprehensive primary care.

Recently relocated closer to her children in Madison and LaCrosse, Dr. Shulman and her husband Doug enjoy cycling and traveling.

Dr. Christina Quale, MD, born in Stoughton, WI, has chosen Family Medicine for the continuity of care and deep patient relationships it fosters. Her commitment to healthcare is complemented by her work with rescue animals and her enjoyment of outdoor activities with her family.

Dr. Julia Danz, DO, from Kaukauna, Wisconsin, is committed to Direct Primary Care for its patient-centered approach and transparency. Dr. Danz, now settled in Middleton with her family, enjoys baking and exploring Madison.

Dr. Giselle Argento-Berrio, MD, with roots in Barranquilla, Colombia, has focused her career on making primary care accessible and patient-centered. Dr. Argento-Berrio is excited to advocate for patients in a direct care setting and resides in Madison with her husband and pets.

Services Offered by Advocate MD

Advocate MD offers a comprehensive range of services that cater to both acute and chronic healthcare needs:

  • Chronic Disease Management: Expert care for conditions like hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, and mental health issues.
  • Acute and Urgent Care: Responsive care for immediate health concerns, available even during nights and weekends.
  • Preventive Care: Comprehensive screenings and physicals for all ages, emphasizing early detection and wellness.
  • Pediatric Care: From newborns to teenagers, offering everything from immunizations to growth and developmental assessments.
  • Procedures and In-Clinic Testing: A variety of procedures including joint injections, skin biopsies, and cryotherapy are performed in-house alongside routine laboratory tests to provide convenient and cost-effective care.

Compare Pricing on the Best HealthShare Plans Available


DPC For Your Business

Advocate MD offers employee healthcare through its Direct Primary Care (DPC) services, providing a cost-effective solution for businesses of all sizes.

This model significantly enhances the accessibility and quality of healthcare for employees, aligning with both small businesses and large corporations looking to pair DPC with high deductible insurance policies or to fully self-fund their healthcare provisions.

By enrolling five or more members from a single company into the DPC program, businesses can avail themselves of discounted monthly membership rates. This setup not only reduces overall healthcare costs but also simplifies the healthcare process, allowing employers to invest in their workforce’s health and well-being more efficiently.

Membership Pricing

Advocate MD offers several membership options to meet different needs:

  • Children (0-18 years): $44 per month, $33 per month for two or more children with parental membership.
  • Adults (19-39 years): $66 per month.
  • Middle-aged Adults (40-59 years): $88 per month.
  • Seniors (60+ years): $111 per month.

Membership includes unlimited access to office visits, consultations, telemedicine, and most in-office procedures without additional charges. Special pricing is available for evening, weekend, and home visits.

Contact Information

Locations:

  • 3205 Glacier Ridge Rd, Middleton, WI 53562
  • 157 S Fair Oaks Ave, Madison, WI 53704
  • 1021 Mineral Point Ave, Janesville, WI 53548
  • 3220 Syene Rd, Madison, WI 53713

Phone: 608-268-6211 (for all locations)

Website: Visit Website

For Further Reading: HSA Direct Healthshare | The CARE+ Plan versus DPC DIRECT: Which Is Better for DPC Plan Members? | DPC Direct Healthshare Designed To Work With Your Direct Primary Care (DPC) Membership