Healthcare as it should be

A direct access/concierge primary care practice in Harford County, Maryland

Slack Family Practice Values

At Slack Family Practice (SFP), our mission is to provide healthcare as it should be. We do this by creating a highly personalized experience in which you partner directly with your doctor. SFP does not accept insurance; instead all interactions are included in a single annual membership fee.

Dr. Melanie Slack is a dedicated family medicine physician with over a decade of experience. She is committed to forming lasting relationships to provide comprehensive primary care without the barriers and constraints of the typical healthcare system. These deeper connections lead to higher patient and physician satisfaction, as well as improved health outcomes.


Our Approach to Care

  • Direct Access
    Get seen when needed, typically within 24 hours for urgent visits.

  • Personalized Care
    Spend the time you need at appointments without feeling rushed.

  • 24/7 Availability
    Call or text anytime for urgent care needs.

  • Preventive Focus
    Work together to create custom health plans for a healthy future.


When you need your doctor

  • Primary Care
    From routine check-ups to physicals, we offer preventative care to ensure your overall well-being.

  • Urgent Care
    Access same-day in-office or virtual appointments for urgent issues.

  • Chronic Disease Management
    Partner with Dr. Slack to manage chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and more.

  • Weight Management
    Improve your health with prescription weight loss treatments at a discounted price with personalized fitness plans.


Why Choose Direct Primary Care?

Direct Access Primary Care offers a simpler, more accessible healthcare experience. By switching to an annual membership, SFP enables closer doctor-patient relationships, with longer appointment times and same-day access, all without the constraints of insurance-based systems. Studies have shown that direct access primary care leads to a significant reduction in emergency department visits and hospitalizations, as well as improved management of chronic conditions such as blood pressure control [1, 2].

  1. Qliance. New primary care model delivers 20 percent lower overall healthcare costs, increases patient satisfaction, and delivers better care. Jan. 15, 2015. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-primary-care-model-delivers-20-percent-lower-overall-healthcare-costs-increases-patient-satisfaction-and-delivers-better-care-300021116.html

  2. Forrest BR. Direct primary care: implications for the health care workforce. Presented at the University of North Carolina Sheps Center Health Workforce Seminar. Feb. 1, 2018. https://www.shepscenter.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/BForrest_DirectPrimaryCare_ShepsWorkforceSeminar_1Feb2018.pdf

What Patients Are Saying

  • *****

    "I really can’t say enough about Dr Slack and Melissa. They make you feel so comfortable and relaxed, in no way do you feel rushed during your visit. Dr. Slack answers questions, and takes her time with to you! I’ve been seeing Dr Slack for several years and I don’t need to go anywhere else!!!"

  • *****

    "Dr. Slack was my primary care physician at MedStar and I decided to follow her when she established her private practice. During my initial visit we spent considerable time discussing my overall health, lifestyle, diet and activity level. She answered my questions about medications, inoculations and the pros and cons of various supplements. She is an excellent doctor, and I highly recommend her."

  • *****

    "This was my first visit with Dr. Slack since she opened her practice. I liked her when she was with a large conglomerate practice; I love her now that she has her own practice. She has more time to listen to my concerns and I never felt rushed."

  • *****

    "Best appt ever with an MD. Not rushed had plenty of time to discuss all issues 1 hour."

  • *****

    "It was refreshing to be in a doctor's office that felt comfortable. Dr. Slack and her assistant were welcoming. I felt heard and not rushed at all. I am thankful to be a patient at Slack Family Practice. I highly recommend."

  • *****

    "She is a great Doctor. She listens and is very personable. I would recommend her to everyone and I have."

  • *****

    Dr. Slack is everything a PCP should be. She is caring, compassionate, and extremely knowledgeable. From the moment you walk into the office, you feel welcome and at ease. She genuinely listens to all concerns, without judgement, and offers appropriate treatment options. You are at ease discussing anything with her. Melissa, her office manager, is equally welcoming and efficient. If you’re looking for the best, look no further than Slack Family Practice!