Summer Survival Guide

"I’m Not Melting, You’re Melting" — A Summer Survival Guide for Outdoor Workers

While many people associate summer with beaches, iced coffee, and backyard barbecues, there’s a different reality for those who work outdoors. Whether you're in construction, landscaping, delivery, or any other hands-on job under the open sky, summer brings a unique set of challenges—especially when the temperatures soar.

At our clinic, we salute your grit. And we want to help you stay safe and healthy through the hottest months of the year. Below is a practical (and medically sound) guide to beating the heat without burning out—literally.

☀️ 1. Hydration Isn’t Optional

If your water bottle is still full at lunch, you’re putting yourself at risk. When you're physically active in high heat, your body loses fluids faster than you may realize—through both sweat and respiration.

Pro Tip: Check your urine color. Pale yellow (think lemonade) is ideal. Anything darker signals dehydration. Aim for frequent sips throughout the day, not just occasional gulps.

👕 2. Dress Smart to Stay Cool

It may seem counterintuitive, but long sleeves and pants made of lightweight, breathable fabrics can actually protect you better than tank tops. Choose light-colored clothing that reflects sunlight, and always wear a wide-brimmed hat or cap for sun protection.

Modern moisture-wicking fabrics can also help regulate body temperature and reduce chafing during long shifts.

🧴 3. Sunscreen Is Essential—Even If You’re Not on Vacation

If you're outdoors for more than 15 minutes, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Sun damage is cumulative, and daily exposure adds up fast.

Reminder: Reapply every 2 hours, especially if you're sweating heavily. Don’t forget areas like ears, the back of the neck, and the tops of your hands.

🚩 4. Know the Early Signs of Heat Exhaustion

Heat-related illnesses can develop quickly. Watch for:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Fatigue or weakness

• Headache

• Nausea or vomiting

• Muscle cramps

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. If someone becomes confused, stops sweating, or collapses, call 911 immediately. Don’t “tough it out.”

🌳 5. Rest in the Shade—You’ve Earned It

Schedule regular breaks, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun is at its peak. Use shaded areas or air-conditioned spaces to cool off. Rotating heavy physical tasks during these hours can also help reduce risk.

Breaks aren’t a sign of weakness—they’re a strategy for safety and longevity.

🛠️ Final Thoughts: Heat Resilience Is Smart, Not Soft

You work hard. You fix, lift, build, and move things most people take for granted. But the sun is not a challenge you can outmuscle. Take care of your body the way you take care of your tools—preventive maintenance keeps everything running smoothly.

Your health matters—to your family, your crew, and your community. Don’t push through warning signs. Stay cool, stay hydrated—and if something feels off, let us help.

At Zion Asher Family Physicians, we’re here when you need us—whether it’s:

• Checking for signs of dehydration or heat-related illness

• Treating sunburn or skin irritation

• Helping with hydration or electrolyte management

• Creating a personalized plan for working safely in the heat

• Offering fast, same-day care without the wait

Dr. Lyman Wostrel knows firsthand what it’s like to work long days in the sun—he’s currently out harvesting wheat. So when we say we understand the demands of outdoor work, we mean it.

We’ve got your back. All summer long.
And because we’re a DPC clinic, you don’t need to navigate insurance just to get the care you need—just call or text us, and we’ll take it from there.

⚖️ Medical Disclaimer:

This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or establish a patient-provider relationship. Always consult with a licensed physician regarding your personal health.

Last Updated: June 26, 2025

Doctor Spotlight: Dr. Lyman Wostrel

Dr. Lyman Wostrel has always been driven by a desire to make systems work better—for people, not just institutions. 

Before becoming a physician, he built a successful career as a high-net-worth financial advisor with academic degrees in economics and finance. Later, he transitioned into engineering during the oil boom, working as a wireline engineer in high-stakes, fast-paced environments.

But it was a deeper call—one rooted in faith and service—that led him to medicine.

After earning his MD and completing a year of family medicine residency in one of California’s largest healthcare systems; Dr. Lyman experienced firsthand how the traditional model often left patients feeling rushed, over-treated, or overlooked. That experience inspired him and his wife Dr. Lauren to return to the heart of medicine: time, trust, and preventive care.

Now, as founder of Zion Asher Family Physicians, Dr. Lyman blends his financial and medical expertise to offer affordable, transparent care that puts patients back in control. He is especially passionate about helping working families and small business employees of Southwest Missouri access consistent, preventive care without the burden of insurance bureaucracy.

Beyond the exam room, Dr. Lyman is an advocate for reform in medical education. He has spoken at national conferences and met with lawmakers at the state and federal levels to advance more humane, effective physician training models—ones that prioritize integrity, well-being, and patient-centered care.

Outside of medicine, you’ll find him farming, enjoying time with family, or sharpening his strategic thinking over a good video game.

How Zion Asher Offers Flexibility for Individualized Family Care

When it comes to caring for your family, no two households are exactly alike. Every parent brings unique values, priorities, and questions to the table — especially when it comes to their children’s health. That’s where Zion Asher Family Physicians stands apart.

In a Direct Primary Care (DPC) model, your family gets time, attention, and options — including the flexibility to make informed decisions about your child’s care, from nutrition and developmental milestones to vaccine scheduling and wellness visits.

What Is Direct Primary Care (DPC)?

Direct Primary Care is a healthcare model where patients pay a flat monthly fee directly to their doctor for a full range of primary care services — no insurance middlemen, no rushed visits, and no surprise bills. In other words: fewer barriers, more connection.

Key benefits of DPC include:

• Longer appointments and better communication

• Same-day or next-day availability

• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees

• Personalized care that aligns with your family's goals

Individualized Care: One Size Doesn’t Fit All

Traditional insurance-based systems often force providers to follow rigid protocols and brief appointment times — usually 10–15 minutes per visit. This leaves little room for nuance, deeper conversations, or alternative approaches.

In a DPC setting, your doctor isn’t bound by those limitations. That means you can expect:

• Unrushed visits to talk through health concerns or parenting decisions

• Tailored wellness plans that fit your family's lifestyle and beliefs

• Respect for your choices, including custom vaccine schedules or alternative approaches

Whether your child has sensory sensitivities, allergies, chronic health conditions, or simply thrives on a slower-paced medical approach, DPC gives you the space to talk through those needs and build a plan together.

Supporting Parents Who Want Custom Vaccine Schedules

Many parents have questions about vaccines — and that’s okay. In our clinic, we believe that respectful, informed discussions are part of good medicine.

We support families who:

• Follow the CDC-recommended vaccine schedule

• Choose a delayed or custom schedule

• Are selectively vaccinating or currently unvaccinated

Rather than pressure or judgment, we offer:

• Time to answer your questions

• Space to review research and make decisions

• Care regardless of your vaccine status

Your choices don’t change our commitment to your child’s health.

The Power of Relationship-Based Medicine

One of the biggest advantages of DPC is the ongoing relationship between doctor and family. Instead of seeing a different provider every visit or rushing through checkups, you get continuous, connected care.

That kind of trust allows for:

• Early detection of issues before they become serious

• Collaborative problem-solving with your doctor

• A deeper understanding of your child’s unique needs

If the whole family sigs up; it also means your doctor really knows your family — and that matters.

Is Zion Asher Right for Your Family?

If you're looking for:

• A healthcare experience that values your time and voice

• A clinic that respects medical autonomy and informed choice

• Flexible care for kids and adults alike

...then Zion Asher could be exactly what your family needs.

We’re Here for You

At Zion Asher Family Physicians, we believe great care starts with listening. Whether you follow a traditional vaccine schedule, a custom one, or are simply exploring your options — we’re here to support you.

Ready for personalized care that fits your family?

⚖️ Medical Disclaimer:

This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or establish a patient-provider relationship. Always consult with a licensed physician regarding your personal health.

Last Updated: June 16, 2025

Doctor Spotlight: Dr. Lauren

With a background in family medicine and a deep commitment to preventive care, Dr. Lauren brings both clinical experience and compassion to every patient encounter. 

After completing medical school and a year of family medicine residency, she trained extensively in women’s health and worked in one of California’s largest healthcare systems. It was there she saw firsthand how rushed appointments, red tape, and overloaded schedules were failing both doctors and patients. 

Determined to offer something better, she and her husband—Dr. Lyman Wostrel—relocated to southwest Missouri to open Zion Asher Family Physicians, a Direct Primary Care practice focused on affordable, personalized, relationship-based medicine.

Dr. Lauren believes healthcare should be proactive more than reactive—and that it should start with listening to patients, not rushing them through.

 She takes time to understand the whole person—not just their labs or diagnoses—and partners with patients to prevent illness, reduce medication burden, and build sustainable health from the inside out.

When she’s not at the clinic, she enjoys spending time with her family, walking their farm, diving deep into God's Word, and is honored to serve the working families and small businesses here is Southwest Missouri.

DUTCH Hormone Testing Now Available in Southwest Missouri

Hormones play such an important role in our health, if they are not at appropriate levels our quality of life can really suffer. It is normal for them to fluctuate, but what if they are not in the optimal range? Getting your hormones tested can give you insight into why healthy eating and exercise may not be giving you the results that you are expecting. That is why we are pleased to offer DUTCH hormone testing in Southwest Missouri!.

What is DUTCH testing?

A DUTCH test is a comprehensive, non-invasive (no needles!) test that can detect hormone imbalances, cortisol levels, and organic acid levels. From the comfort of your home, urine samples are collected then mailed to the lab to be analyzed. Your results are sent to your doctor, who will sit down with you to discuss your results and together you will decide on the best course of action.

Who Should Consider Testing?

You might benefit from DUTCH testing if you:

• Feel tired no matter how much sleep you get

• Struggle with mood swings, anxiety, or irritability

• Suspect your hormones are "off" but standard labs say everything is “normal”

• Experience stubborn weight gain or difficulty losing weight

• Have irregular or painful menstrual cycles, or symptoms of perimenopause or menopause

• Notice brain fog, low motivation, or poor stress tolerance

• Want to optimize your energy, sleep, and vitality—not just treat symptoms

This test is ideal for those who want a deeper understanding of hormone balance, adrenal function, and detox pathways—especially if you've hit a dead end with traditional lab work.

At Zion Asher, we use DUTCH testing as part of a functional approach to help patients see the full picture and take real steps toward healing and thriving.

How It’s Different from Routine Labs?

Traditional blood labs provide a snapshot in time—measuring hormone levels at one moment on one day. But hormones fluctuate throughout the day and metabolize through various pathways in the body, which standard labs often miss.

The DUTCH Test (Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones) tracks hormone patterns over a 24-hour period and analyzes metabolites, giving a more complete picture of:

• How well your body is producing estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, and cortisol

• How efficiently you’re metabolizing or clearing these hormones

• Whether your stress hormone rhythm (cortisol) is aligned with a healthy daily pattern

• Clues about liver detox, nutrient needs, and even neurotransmitter activity

This allows us to identify subtle dysfunctions—even when your blood labs appear “normal”—and personalize your care with greater precision.

What to Expect Next

If you're interested in DUTCH hormone testing, here's how the process works at Zion Asher Family Physicians:

1. The Initial Consultation
   We’ll review your symptoms, health history, and determine if advanced hormone testing is the right next step.

2. Sample Collection at Home
   If testing is appropriate, you’ll receive an easy-to-use at-home kit with clear instructions. The collection involves dried urine samples throughout a 24-hour period—no blood draw required.

3. Comprehensive Results Review
   Once results are back, we schedule a dedicated consult to walk you through the findings in detail, explain what they mean, and outline a personalized plan. This may include nutritional support, lifestyle changes, or targeted supplementation.

4. Ongoing Optimization
   We track your progress and adjust your care as your body heals and rebalances—because hormone health is a journey, not a one-time fix.

Note: DUTCH testing is only available to established DPC members, and due to the time-intensive nature of care, appointments for hormone consults are limited each m

Ready to gain clarity on your hormones? Click here to request more info.

⚖️ Medical Disclaimer:

This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or establish a patient-provider relationship. Always consult with a licensed physician regarding your personal health.

Last Updated: June 17, 2025

I’m Healthy, Why do I Need a Primary Care Doctor?

The Answer Could Literally Save Your Life

We all tend to put things off—especially when nothing seems wrong.
Take your car, for example. If the check engine light comes on but it’s still running fine, it’s tempting to ignore it… until something major breaks.

We often treat our health the same way.

When you feel good, it’s easy to believe that everything is good. But many serious conditions develop slowly and silently—until they become difficult, costly, or even impossible to reverse.

That’s where a primary care doctor comes in.

Early Detection Saves Lives

You may feel perfectly fine, but that doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. Conditions like:

• High blood pressure

• High cholesterol

• Type 2 diabetes

• Thyroid disease

• Certain cancers

…can be present for years with no obvious symptoms.

By the time they’re causing fatigue, shortness of breath, or chest pain, the damage may already be significant.

A simple yearly visit with your primary care doctor could catch these early—when they’re still manageable, reversible, or even preventable.

Prevention Is Cheaper Than Treatment

Preventive care doesn’t just protect your health—it protects your wallet too.

Chronic conditions cost more than just money. They cost:

• Time off work

• Prescription medications

• Specialist visits

• Emergency room bills

• Lost energy, freedom, and quality of life

By staying on top of your health now, you can avoid many of those downstream costs entirely.

Habits Form Early—Health Is No Different

If you’re in your 20s or 30s, now is the best time to build the habit of annual check-ins. It’s a chance to:

• Learn your baseline labs

• Get personalized guidance on diet, sleep, and exercise

• Catch small issues before they become big problems

When you hit your 40s, preventive care becomes even more essential. Cancer screening guidelines kick in, and your risk of metabolic and cardiovascular conditions begins to rise.

Routine labs can detect:

• Elevated blood sugar (early diabetes)

• High LDL or triglycerides (cardiovascular risk)

• Inflammatory markers and liver issues

• Vitamin and hormone deficiencies

Most people who catch these early and make lifestyle changes never need long-term medications.

Your Family Deserves a Healthy You

When you take care of your health, you’re not just doing it for yourself—you’re doing it for your family.
A healthier you is:

• More present

• More capable

• Less likely to experience sudden medical emergencies or financial strain from illness

You don’t need to be sick to start seeing a doctor—you need to be smart.

The Zion Asher Approach: Care That Grows With You

At Zion Asher Family Physicians, we’re not just here when something’s wrong. We’re here to help you:

• Stay healthy

• Catch issues early

• Navigate each stage of life with the right screenings, labs, and personalized advice

You’ll have direct access to a doctor who knows you—not just your chart.

Ready to make your health a priority—before there’s a problem?

Join Zion Asher Family Physicians or contact us today to start building lifelong habits that protect your future.

⚖️ Medical Disclaimer:

This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or establish a patient-provider relationship. Always consult with a licensed physician regarding your personal health.

Last Updated: June 29, 2025

Can You Get Ahead Of Allergy Symptoms?

Yes—and Here’s How to Start Feeling Better Before the Season Hits

For millions of people, the arrival of spring (or fall) is bittersweet. The weather is beautiful. The skies are clearer. But if you suffer from seasonal allergies, those first warm breezes come with a price:

• Stuffy, runny nose

• Itchy or watery eyes

• Sneezing

• Brain fog and fatigue

If that sounds familiar, here’s the good news: you don’t have to suffer through it.

At Zion Asher Family Physicians, we help our members not only manage their allergy symptoms—we help them get ahead of them.

✅ Free Ways to Reduce Allergy Symptoms Before They Start

Even before medications or testing, these simple steps can make a big difference:

1. Start your allergy medications early.
The best time to start a nasal spray or antihistamine is 2–3 weeks before allergy season hits—not after you’re already miserable.

2. Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors.
Pollen sticks to hair, clothes, and skin. Rinsing off keeps it from entering your home or settling on your pillow.

3. Keep windows closed and run your AC.
This helps keep pollen levels lower indoors, especially during peak pollen hours (5–10 AM and early evening).

4. Use a HEPA air purifier in your bedroom.
Clean air while you sleep helps reduce symptoms and supports better rest.

5. Avoid outdoor yardwork on high pollen days.
If you must mow or rake, wear a mask and glasses to reduce direct contact with allergens.

When Free Tips Aren’t Enough: Your Treatment Options

For many people, basic prevention helps, but some need a stronger approach to enjoy the season again. That’s where we come in.

💊 1. Prescription Medications at Wholesale Cost

We offer a range of effective, non-drowsy antihistamines, nasal sprays, and eye drops—often for less than retail or pharmacy prices, even for over-the-counter brands.

If you struggle to remember to take your meds daily, we can help find the most convenient and effective regimen for your lifestyle.

💉 2. Allergy Injections (Traditional Shots)

If you prefer injections, we offer those too:

• Given every 3 months, or more often as needed

• Only the cost of the injection is billed—visits are included in your membership

• Effective for those who don’t respond well to oral or topical medications

📌 3. Sublingual Immunotherapy (Allergy Drops)

This is a long-term solution we offer to our members.

• It starts with a simple blood test to identify your specific allergens

• A compounding pharmacy creates customized drops you take under the tongue—no shots!

• Doses are increased every 90 days over 2–3 years

• The goal: train your body to stop overreacting to pollen and other triggers

This method has the highest upfront cost, but for many, it results in lasting freedom from severe allergies—and fewer medications down the road.

🦠 4. Probiotics to Support Immune Balance

Did you know your gut health plays a role in your immune system’s response to allergens?
Some studies suggest that certain probiotic strains may reduce allergy symptoms.

While not a cure, probiotics can be a useful complement to other allergy treatments—and support digestion, immunity, and inflammation overall.

Breathe Easier—Literally

You don’t have to dread allergy season. Whether you're seeking natural options, permanent relief, or just someone who listens, Zion Asher Family Physicians is here to help you take control—before your symptoms take over.

✅ Want to know which option is right for you?

Contact us or schedule a visit today and let’s create your allergy relief plan—before the season hits.

⚖️ Medical Disclaimer:

This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or establish a patient-provider relationship. Always consult with a licensed physician regarding your personal health.

Last Updated: June 29, 2025

Start the Year off Right!

It seems like towards the end of the year, starting in October, tasty temptations begin to be more in-your-face. The weather turns colder, and warm, creamy comfort foods are a way to beat the cold-weather blues. The holidays bring a plethora of sweet treats, and it can be hard to say no to them despite your best intentions. By the beginning of the new year, it is easy to become down on yourself about your food choices over the last few months. Indulging in the special flavors of the season doesn’t have to wreck you.

The new year is a great time to resolve to make healthy choices and implement small changes that can have a big impact on your health. If you make small, healthy changes that turn into habits, when the holidays come around again you can enjoy your favorite specialty foods without the guilt that can accompany them! For many people January and February are the slowest months of the year, making them the perfect time to focus on your health. Here are some easy tips to get you started:

Eat nutrient-dense foods

One of the most simple ways to impact your health in a positive way is to choose nutrient-dense foods. Lean meats, whole grains, nuts, legumes, vegetables, and fruits provide everything you need to get the nutrients your body requires and will help you eat the proper amount for your energy needs. Sufficient amounts of protein, fat, and fiber from whole foods naturally keep you full and reduce cravings.

Move your body

Exercise doesn’t have to be hours at the gym. To begin, it can be as small as a few laps around your living room or up and down your driveway or street. Making exercise a priority often quickly goes from a have-to task to something you look forward to and miss when it doesn’t happen. Regular exercise improves your mood, sleep quality, physique, and overall feeling of wellbeing. Taking it outside when you can will boost the benefits, as being in nature has been proven to have stress-reducing effects.

Resistance training is essential, since healthy muscle tissue improves every other aspect of your health. There are tons of free workout videos online, or you can pay a small fee to have access to a progressive program designed to systematically strengthen your entire body. Finding ways to incorporate active things you loved to do when you were younger can give you a boost in having a desire to get moving. 

When we feel motivated to change, it seems like overhauling your life all at once is the best option. While that can work for some people, most of us are more successful if we change small things a few at a time, until they become part of who we are. Set yourself up for success by choosing a few whole foods each day, drinking more water and finding an activity that you love. This year can be the year that you make lasting changes to improve your life!

What are the Benefits of Membership-Based Healthcare?

Most healthy people don’t see the doctor until they are feeling unwell, and that may be as little as one time per year. So what is the point of paying a monthly membership if you only see the doctor once a year? 

Preventative care

Even if you are as healthy as a horse, you still need to see your doctor annually. Visiting your doctor once a year allows them to get a baseline on your health. This allows them to catch any red flags that need attention early. Early detection has been proven to improve outcomes with everything from preventing diabetes to treating cancer. A study published in 2019 by JAMA Internal Medicine found that people with a primary care physician were significantly more likely to have routine care, fill prescriptions, and get important screenings. 

After-hours access

Accidents and dangerous illnesses do not keep office hours. Paying a monthly membership gives you access to your doctor for emergencies even on nights, weekends, and holidays at no extra charge. A single emergency room visit can cost you thousands of dollars, and that will pay for years worth of membership fees. 

Lower long-term care costs

Staying on top of your health can reap big benefits financially in the long run. Illnesses and diseases that are caught early can typically be managed or treated with significantly less medical intervention. 

Lower cost for medications

Most membership-based practices offer significantly lower cost prescription medications and lab services. The prescription discount is often even less than the copay of medications covered by insurance. 

Fair pricing

 Clinics base their membership fee on the expectation that they will see you an average of three times per year. Chronic or uncontrolled health issues can mean more visits at first, but the goal for doctors should be better health for their patients, which naturally results in less visits over time. Once you are healthy, the best way to stay healthy is to have a great relationship with your doctor, visiting them annually and only when you really need to.

Membership-based clinics are worth the money you pay every month, even if you don’t see the doctor often. In fact, you might need to see the doctor even less!

What You Need to Know About Burn Care

Safe & Effective First Aid Tips for Minor Burns at Home

Aloe vera, mustard, vinegar—burn myths like these tend to resurface every summer. But what really works when treating a burn?

Burn-related ER visits spike every year around the Fourth of July due to fireworks, grilling accidents, and prolonged sun exposure. Here’s what to know about when to treat a burn at home—and when to seek medical care.

Which Burns Can You Treat at Home?

There are five categories of burns, but only two types are safe to manage at home:

Superficial Burns

• Example: mild sunburn

• Skin remains intact but feels warm, red, dry, and painful

Partial Thickness Burns (First- and Second-Degree)

• Red or blistered skin

• Swelling and pain

• Skin is moist and sensitive but not pale, leathery, or blackened

When to Go to the ER

Seek immediate emergency care if:

• The burn covers more than 10% of the body

• The skin looks white, leathery, or "Swiss cheese"-like

• The burn involves hands, face, genitals, joints, or airway

• The person burned is a child, elderly, or immunocompromised

• There are signs of infection: pus, spreading redness, fever

If a blister breaks open or skin appears raw, it may require professional wound care to prevent infection.

Burn Care at Home: Do’s and Don’ts

✅ DO:

• Run cool (not cold) water over the burn for up to 5 minutes

• Use a clean, damp towel or gauze compress for up to 30 minutes

• Gently clean with mild soap and tap water

• Take over-the-counter pain relief (acetaminophen or ibuprofen)

• Keep the burn clean and loosely covered with sterile gauze

❌ DON’T:

• Do not apply ice—it can worsen skin damage

• Avoid creams or salves unless directed by a doctor

• Don’t use alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or harsh cleaners

• Skip spray anesthetics or lidocaine gels, which can irritate the skin

Healing Time & What to Watch For

Most minor burns heal on their own in 3 to 21 days, depending on the depth and size of the burn.

Keep an eye out for signs of infection such as:

• Increased redness or swelling

• Pus or foul odor

• Fever

• Delayed healing

If you're unsure, reach out to your doctor. It’s always better to ask early than to treat too late.

Have a Safe and Happy Fourth of July!

Burns are common but preventable. Stay safe this summer by keeping water nearby during fireworks or grilling, avoiding prolonged sun exposure, and knowing when to seek medical help.

⚖️ Medical Legal Disclaimer:

This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Last Updated: June 28, 2025

Why Should I Sign Up for Membership if I Already Have Health Insurance?

You may be wondering: If I already have health insurance, why would I need a membership at Zion Asher Family Physicians? It’s a great question—and one we hear often.

Let’s break it down.

Insurance Was Never Meant to Handle Everyday Healthcare

Traditionally, health insurance was designed to protect individuals and families from catastrophic events—unexpected hospitalizations, surgeries, or severe injuries. Over time, however, insurance plans started to include routine care, but at a cost: more restrictions, less time with your doctor, and rising out-of-pocket expenses.

Direct Primary Care (DPC) works differently. At Zion Asher Family Physicians, we provide high-quality, accessible primary care without involving insurance companies in your day-to-day care.

Insurance Can Limit Your Options—We Don’t

When you use your insurance plan for primary care, you’re required to use in-network doctors and services. That means:

• Your doctor must be in your insurance network.

• Your plan may not cover the medications or labs your doctor recommends.

• Contracts change yearly, so even if you love your provider, you might be forced to switch.

With DPC, you get to keep your doctor—regardless of which insurance company you use for hospital or specialist care. Zion Asher Family Physicians is not contracted with insurance companies, so we work for you, not them.

More Time with Your Doctor, Fewer Barriers to Care

In traditional insurance-based clinics, physicians often care for over 2,000 patients. That means rushed appointments (usually 7–10 minutes), long wait times, and often being seen by someone other than your doctor.

At Zion Asher Family Physicians:

• We limit our panel size to around 500–600 patients per physician.

• You’ll typically spend 30–60 minutes per visit with your actual doctor.

• We know our patients well, so we can often help with just a phone call or secure message.

This kind of relationship-based care helps prevent chronic disease and supports better long-term health.

Affordable Labs and Medications—No Permission Slips Required

Because we’re not billing insurance, we don’t need prior authorizations to order labs or prescribe medications. That means faster care and fewer delays.

We’ve negotiated deeply discounted pricing on:

• Common labs

• Generic medications

• Imaging referrals

In fact, many members pay less out of pocket for labs and prescriptions through us than they would using their insurance.

Need a specialist? No problem—we’ll coordinate referrals, and your specialist can bill your insurance like usual.

Peace of Mind, Even with Insurance

We encourage our members to pair their DPC membership with a high-deductible health insurance plan or health sharing ministry to cover hospitalizations or major medical needs. But here’s the truth: about 90% of your care happens at the primary care level.

When you:

• Have a doctor you trust,

• Can be seen quickly when you're sick,

• Get help managing stress, hormones, weight, or chronic illness…

...you’re investing in better health—and avoiding more serious problems down the road.

The Bottom Line: Insurance is Not the Same as Care

At Zion Asher Family Physicians, we’re redefining what it means to have a personal physician. Our Direct Primary Care model gives you:

• Unrushed visits

• Transparent pricing

• Real relationships with your doctor

• The freedom to make decisions based on health, not billing codes

Insurance is a backup plan.
DPC is your care plan.

Ready to experience the difference? Join our practice today or schedule a free consultation to learn more.

⚖️ Medical Disclaimer:

This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or establish a patient-provider relationship. Always consult with a licensed physician regarding your personal health.

Last Updated: June 28, 2025

How to Have a Great Relationship With Your Doctor

There are things that you can do to help develop a great relationship with your doctor. Thinking about your healthcare concerns and goals before your appointment can help you and your doctor work together to come up with a plan that meets your needs. Below are some tips to help make the most of your visit. 

Take some time before your appointment to write down any concerns that you have as well as health goals. It can be helpful to prioritize your concerns so that your most important questions are addressed first. 

Don’t forget to write down any medications or supplements that you take, including dosages, since those could have an effect on your health care decisions going forward. Be sure to tell your physician when any medications you are on are about to run out. Some medications can cause issues if you run out of them and don’t take them for a few days.

If your list of concerns is long or there are specific tests that you plan to ask for, it can be helpful to let the doctor know ahead of time. Certain lab tests are fasting tests, which means that you should forgo certain foods or beverages for a period of time before going in to have your blood drawn.  If you have a lot of concerns it can be helpful to email the doctor your list. That also gives them an opportunity to preview your concerns and be thinking about your needs ahead of time.

Be honest with your physician about your healthcare history. It can be difficult to bring up embarrassing things from your past, but the only thing your doctor cares about is helping you to be healthy in the present and future. 

If you have a lot of concerns or complicated needs it may be helpful to consider bringing a trusted companion along, especially if you get overwhelmed easily. Another set of ears can help you remember important information after the visit.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and make sure that you understand your care plan. If you think of something after your visit, don’t hesitate to call your doctor and get clarification. 

Lastly, be sure to follow your care plan. It is important to take your medications on time and follow your doctor’s other recommendations. If you would like to try an alternative plan, don’t be afraid to ask.

Visiting your doctor is only one small part of your healthcare. Doing these things will help you to be in control of your health and allow your doctor to serve you in the best way possible. 

Be SMART about your New Year's Goals!

Its that time of year again! With the new year just around the corner many of us are brainstorming new goals for the new year. And...many of us will become discouraged or distracted from these goals when we are not SMART about setting our goals. My mom always asks, "How do you eat an elephant?......One bite at a time!"
This motto is the foundation for setting goals that don't sputter out before we even get started. When setting goals this year, remember to make S.M.A.R.T. goals. (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-based). Small steps in the beginning can lead to big changes in the long run!

Goals are also great for your mental health. Setting and achieving goals give you a sense of purpose, accomplishment, and self confidence.

Some examples of SMART goals could be:

1: Going for a walk for 30 minutes 2x week (if you are working on fitness, cardiovascular health, mental health, etc)

2: Replacing a starch side with a vegetable side with each dinner during the week days

3: Having quality family time for 1 hour each week by playing a board game, family outing, or activity.

What goals are you setting for yourself this next year?

What can Zion Asher Family Physicians do for my business?

Health insurance costs are one of the biggest financial burdens for small and mid-sized businesses today. Premiums keep rising, but employee access to timely, high-quality care doesn’t always improve. That’s where Direct Primary Care (DPC) comes in.

At Zion Asher Family Physicians, we partner with businesses to lower healthcare costs, improve employee wellness, and reduce absenteeism—without sacrificing care.

The Problem with Traditional Insurance Plans

Most businesses are stuck between two difficult choices:

• Pay high premiums for group insurance plans that employees rarely use efficiently

• Or offer minimal coverage and risk unhappy, unhealthy employees

But there’s a smarter solution—pairing Direct Primary Care with a self-funded insurance plan.

How Direct Primary Care Saves You Money

DPC provides most of your employees’ everyday healthcare—without insurance claims. That includes:

• Same-day or next-day visits

• Virtual care via phone or video

• Affordable labs and medications

• Preventive care and chronic disease management

Because these services are handled directly through us, your self-funded insurance plan isn’t tapped for the majority of claims. That leaves more of your claims pool untouched—and eligible for return.

Businesses that use this model with DPC practices like Atlas MD in Wichita have reported 25–50% of their claim pool refunded at the end of the year. That’s money you can reinvest in:

• Hiring key staff

• Product development

• Expanding operations

All while offering a healthcare benefit your team actually values and uses.

What Makes Zion Asher Different for Employers?

We work with businesses across southwest Missouri to design healthcare solutions that work. Here’s what you get:

• Discounted rates for businesses enrolling 2 or more employees

• No copays, no billing codes, no insurance paperwork

• 24/7 access for urgent concerns—no unnecessary ER trips

• Flexible scheduling that keeps your employees on the job, not stuck in a waiting room

• A local partner who understands the unique needs of rural businesses and working families

Happier, Healthier Employees = A Stronger Business

When your team has quick access to care, they miss fewer days of work—and recover faster when they’re sick. Our personalized, prevention-focused approach also helps reduce long-term costs by catching issues early.

The Bottom Line

Direct Primary Care helps your business spend less on healthcare and get more in return.
And your employees get high-quality, relationship-based care that’s convenient, compassionate, and effective.

Ready to explore how Zion Asher Family Physicians can help your business thrive?
You're not alone—businesses right here in Lawrence County are already seeing the benefits of combining Direct Primary Care with smarter health plans.
Contact us to learn more or set up a free consultation.

⚖️ Medical Disclaimer:

This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or establish a patient-provider relationship. Always consult with a licensed physician regarding your personal health.

Last Updated: June 28, 2025

What if I need to see a specialist?

This is a question we get often—and it’s a valid one.

“If I’m a member of Zion Asher Family Physicians, what happens when I need care beyond primary care?”

Let’s walk you through it.

Why Patients Get Referred So Often in Traditional Clinics

In most insurance-based clinics, physicians are expected to see 24–40 patients a day. That’s a packed schedule with little time for complex cases or digging into root causes.

Because of this:

• Doctors are pressured to refer quickly, even for issues that could be handled in primary care

• Appointments are often rushed, averaging just 7–12 minutes

• Patients end up bouncing between offices, specialists, and bills

What’s Different at Zion Asher Family Physicians?

We’re a Direct Primary Care (DPC) practice, which means:

• We limit our patient panel so you get more time

• You can reach us by phone, or secure messaging

• Same-day or next-day visits are the norm

• We can often solve problems that would’ve been referred out elsewhere

This means fewer unnecessary referrals, less cost, and better continuity of care.

But What If You Do Need a Specialist?

We’ve got options—because sometimes specialty care is the right call.

1. Virtual Specialist Opinions

We have access to a nationwide network of board-certified specialists who can review your case electronically—without you needing to leave your home or take time off work.
These e-consults are:

• Fast

• Affordable ($30-$90)

• A great “in-between” option before a full referral

2. In-Person Specialist Referrals

If you need an in-person visit:

• You’re free to use your existing insurance plan to cover specialty care

• If you're uninsured or prefer to pay cash, we’ll connect you with specialist clinics that offer cash-pay discounts

• We’ve curated a list of trusted providers both locally and online that offer transparent pricing

In either case, we’ll help coordinate your referral so you feel supported—not left on your own to navigate the system.

The Bottom Line

At Zion Asher Family Physicians, we don’t just offer an alternative to the current system—we offer a smarter, more personal way to navigate it.

We’re here to help you avoid unnecessary referrals, reduce costs, and get the right care at the right time—without the red tape.

🔗 Related:

Why We Don’t Accept Insurance
How DPC Saves Businesses Money

⚖️ Medical Disclaimer:

This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or establish a patient-provider relationship. Always consult with a licensed physician regarding your personal health.

Last Updated: June 29, 2025