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.

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

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

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

Why does Zion Asher Family Physicians not accept insurance?

The short answer?
Insurance complicates everything—and makes healthcare more expensive and less personal.

Let us explain.

Health Insurance Was Meant for the Big Stuff

Think of health insurance like car insurance. You don’t expect your auto policy to pay for oil changes or brake pads. You use it when something major happens—like an accident or a natural disaster.

Health insurance was originally designed the same way:
To protect you from catastrophic costs, like surgery or hospitalization.

But over time, insurance began covering routine care like doctor visits, labs, and basic medications. While that sounds helpful on the surface, it actually introduced a mountain of paperwork, billing codes, and middlemen—and those layers drive up the cost of care for everyone.

How Insurance Interferes with Your Care

When a clinic accepts insurance, the doctor has to:

• Meet insurance company requirements before ordering labs, imaging, or meds

• Follow "approved" treatment plans—even when they aren't the best option

• See more patients in less time just to stay financially afloat

• Hire extra staff just to handle billing, prior authorizations, and denials

This results in:

• Short visits (often under 15 minutes)

• Delayed care because of paperwork

• Less time for listening, problem-solving, and prevention

And worst of all? You’re still paying more, even with insurance. A year’s membership for an individual is usually less than $1,500, compared to the average annual cost of $8,951 for a single coverage health insurance premium—or $25,572 for family coverage—according to the 2024 Kaiser Family Foundation Employer Health Benefits Survey.

Why We Don’t Accept Insurance—and What You Get Instead

At Zion Asher Family Physicians, we’ve opted out of the insurance treadmill so we can provide care that actually works—for you.

By not billing insurance, we can offer:

• Same-day or next-day visits

• Longer appointments (30–60 minutes, not 10), if needed

• Transparent pricing—no surprise bills or hidden fees

• Virtual care when you need it

• Affordable labs, medications, and procedures—often cheaper than using insurance

Because we work directly for you—not the insurance company—we can focus on what actually helps you feel better and stay healthy.

Real Care, Not Red Tape

We believe healthcare should be simple, honest, and focused on your needs—not insurance company profits.

Our Direct Primary Care model restores that simplicity. You pay a flat monthly membership for unlimited access to care, and we take care of the rest.

No billing games.
No delays.
Just care that puts you first.

Curious what this looks like in real life? Learn how we’re helping local families and businesses thrive with better care.

⚖️ 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