Maryland DPC Guide¶
Quick Summary: Maryland does not have explicit DPC-enabling legislation. Medication dispensing is permitted with registration. Proximity to DC creates opportunities. Legal consultation recommended.
[!CAUTION] Verify Current Law: Maryland lacks explicit DPC legislation. Consult the Maryland Board of Physicians and a healthcare attorney to ensure compliance.
At a Glance¶
| Category | Status |
|---|---|
| DPC Legislation | No — Operates under general contract law |
| Medication Dispensing | Permitted — Registration required |
| Medicare Opt-Out | Standard federal process |
| Tier | 3 (Challenging — Legal consultation recommended) |
DPC Law Status¶
Legislation¶
Status: No explicit DPC-enabling legislation
Maryland has not enacted specific legislation exempting DPC agreements from insurance regulation.
What This Means¶
- Legal status of DPC less certain
- Consult healthcare attorney before starting
- Structure agreements carefully
- Monitor for legislative developments
Medication Dispensing¶
Regulatory Status¶
Maryland permits physician dispensing with registration.
Requirements¶
- DEA Registration: Required for controlled substances
- State Registration: Register with Maryland Board of Pharmacy
- Pharmacy Board: health.maryland.gov/pharmacy
- PDMP: Check Maryland Prescription Drug Monitoring Program
- Record Keeping: Maintain dispensing records
Licensing and Registration¶
Medical License¶
Board: Maryland Board of Physicians
Website: mbp.state.md.us
Business Registration¶
Entity Registration: Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation
Website: dat.maryland.gov
DEA Registration¶
Website: deadiversion.usdoj.gov
Medicare Considerations¶
MAC for Maryland: Novitas Solutions (JL jurisdiction)
See Medicare Opt-Out Guide for detailed process.
Key Resources¶
State Agencies¶
| Agency | Purpose | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Maryland Board of Physicians | Physician licensing | mbp.state.md.us |
| Maryland Board of Pharmacy | Dispensing regulations | health.maryland.gov/pharmacy |
| Maryland SDAT | Business registration | dat.maryland.gov |
Professional Organizations¶
| Organization | Website |
|---|---|
| MedChi, The Maryland State Medical Society | medchi.org |
State-Specific Considerations¶
DC Suburbs¶
- Montgomery and Prince George's Counties
- High income, educated population
- Federal employees (consider FEHB)
Baltimore Metro¶
- Large healthcare market
- Academic medical centers
- Urban opportunities
Western Maryland and Eastern Shore¶
- More rural character
- Primary care needs
- Different market dynamics
Checklist for Starting DPC in Maryland¶
- Consult healthcare attorney regarding DPC legal structure
- Obtain or verify Maryland medical license
- Register business entity with SDAT
- Obtain EIN from IRS
- Register with DEA (if prescribing controlled substances)
- Register with Board of Pharmacy (if dispensing)
- Secure malpractice insurance
- Develop membership agreement (attorney review essential)
- File Medicare opt-out affidavit (if applicable)