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Vines Concierge Medicine — Personalized care that fits real life in Birmingham is what busy schedules need. (Jacob Blankenship / Bham Now)

Concierge medicine was once for celebrities and CEOs, but now more people in Birmingham are using this service for faster care, personal attention and a doctor who remembers their name, like Dr. Karen Vines from Vines Concierge Medicine in Pelham.

Why is it such a game-changer? Here are three reasons locals are skipping long waits, getting more time with their doctor and regaining control of their healthcare.

1. Minimal wait times for Birminghamians on the go

Everyone could use a little extra time, whether to eat, sleep, work, play or just breathe without feeling like their days are stuck on fast-forward. I know what it’s like to sit in a waiting room for hours, missing school or work and leaving more frustrated than when I walked in.

This is where concierge medicine flips the script. At Vines Concierge Medicine, there’s little to no waiting room time (seriously!), and your appointments last as long as you need—whether it’s a quick 10 minutes or a full hour.

Located on Valleydale Road at I-65 Exit 147, stopping by is quick and convenient, which saves even more time.

2. Tailored wellness plans for all lifestyles

Healthcare shouldn’t be one-size-fits-all. A healthy 20-year-old may only need routine checkups, while another the same age with a chronic condition might require a tailored wellness plan.

Whether you’re a young adult or in your senior years, concierge medicine makes it possible to get the time, attention and guidance you need to feel confident in your care. Seeing the same doctor regularly builds real relationships, and when your doctor truly knows you, your care improves.

Something that stands out is patients can connect 24/7 via text, patient portal, email or phone, so all of your questions and urgent concerns are answered fast. As someone who uses concierge medicine for Type 1 diabetes, this around-the-clock availability to care makes the fee totally worth it!

3. Quick care for sick days in Birmingham

Birmingham healthcare — When your doctor knows you, even a simple checkup feels more reassuring. (Jacob Blankenship / Bham Now)

When germs crash your schedule, the last thing you want is to wait days for an appointment or prescription. Vines Concierge Medicine offers same-day or next-business-day appointments, along with after-hours access for those 2AM sore throats or weekend fevers. It’s a total win for well days and a lifesaver on sick days, when all you want is to be seen and get back to bed.

“With our concierge model, we can see patients the same day or next day if needed. We have a smaller patient panel so we can accommodate members, and you get to talk directly to me or my staff.”
Dr. Karen Vines, MD, Vines Concierge Medicine

Also offered: Home visits for when you’re too sick to make it to the office and virtual visits for when you’re on vacation and catch a cold or the flu.

Key things to know about Vines Concierge Medicine

Insurance still applies: If you have Medicare or another form of medical insurance, you’ll still be able to use it. Things like office visits + labs are billed separately, just like a traditional practice.
Family-friendly: Patients 12 and up can be seen, so the whole fam, from teens to grandparents, can get care from one doctor in one convenient location. Bonus: Dr. Vines is married with two young children, so she knows just how important it is to keep everyone healthy and on track.
Membership perks: The annual fee covers extras that make concierge care special, like longer appointments, faster availability, virtual visits + more.
- Membership prices:
  - Individual membership: $2,000 per year
  - Spouse /Immediate adult family member discount: $1,800 per member per year (10% off when enrolling at the same time)
  - Children (ages 12–18): $500 per year when enrolled with a parent or legal guardian
- Payment options: Membership fees may be paid quarterly, semi-annually or annually.