System of medical care in which physicians either have patients pay for whatever services are received or charge patients annual membership fees entitling them to certain services (e.g., annual physical, medical screenings for certain diseases or illnesses, preventive care). Patients are given paperwork to submit claims to their insurance companies. This system is usually for well-to-do clientele, which is why it sometimes is referred to as boutique medicine . Physicians prefer that it be called personalized, preventive care or fee-based medical care .