Frequently Asked Questions

What is 217 Medicine Direct?

217 Medicine Direct is an independent, physician-led medical practice offering direct, personalized care without insurance middlemen. Care is focused on time, access, and relationships — just you and your doctor.

Do you accept insurance?

No. 217 Medicine Direct is a direct-pay practice.

That means:

• No insurance billing

• No surprise bills

• Clear, upfront pricing

You pay directly for care, and I focus on treating you — not paperwork.

Can I still use my insurance?

Yes. You can keep your insurance for:

• Hospital care

• Specialists

• Imaging

• Prescriptions

• Emergency care

You are also free to submit receipts from care you receive from 217 Medicine Direct to your insurer for potential "out-of-network" reimbursement, but our office does not facilitate this process or give any guarantee thereof.

How much does a visit cost?

All costs are transparent and discussed upfront. 

Please see pricing page for details.

No copays. No facility fees. No after-the-fact billing.

Where do visits take place?

We are extremely flexible with where we can provide care. Options include:

• In our office

• At your home

• At your workplace

• Virtual telemedicine

What types of care do you provide?

Services include:

• Primary care and urgent concerns

• Preventive care and wellness visits

• Chronic disease management

• Minor procedures (suturing, wound care, injections, I&Ds)

• Telemedicine follow-ups

• Lab coordination and referrals
  
  

If something is outside of our scope, we will help coordinate appropriate next steps.

Do you prescribe medications?

Yes, when medically appropriate.

Dr. Mesbah is a fully licensed physician in Illinois and can prescribe medications, including controlled substances, in accordance with medical guidelines and state law.

Can you order labs or imaging?

Yes.

We order labs through Quest Diagnostics and imaging through local centers. 

You will either pay those facilities directly at discounted self-pay rates, or we will collect the fees in order to qualify you for discounts that we have negotiated for our members. We do not mark-up lab fees or charge extra for interpretation of results.

Is my information private and secure?

Absolutely.

Patient information is handled with strict confidentiality and HIPAA-compliant processes. Communication methods and records are structured to protect your privacy.

Who is this practice best for?

Direct Primary Care works well for:

• People who want more time with their doctor

• Patients frustrated by rushed visits

• Those with high-deductible plans or no insurance

• Individuals who value access to their doctor and continuity of care
  
  

If you’re unsure whether it’s a good fit, just ask.

How do I get started?

It's simple!

Enroll online, or give us a call or text at (217) 761-0251 to ask any questions and get scheduled for your first appointment. 

No pressure. No obligation.

What if I need a specialist?

We work within the healthcare system- not outside it. 

When needed, we'll help coordinate referrals, share records, and guide next steps.

Do you provide emergency care?

No.

For life-threatening emergencies, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Why did you start this practice?

Healthcare doesn’t need to be complicated.

217 Medicine Direct exists to restore clarity, trust, and human connection in medical care.