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