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

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

Welcome, Tara!

My name is Tara Scheets, and I am happy to be joining Drs.Wostrel and Hannah at Zion Asher Family Physicians. I will be doing many different things around the clinic, including administrative work and assisting with patient needs.

My husband and I have three children and have lived in the area for nine years. We have a

small farm where I like to experiment with homestead related things such as beekeeping and

soap-making. Our family loves all things outdoors, but cold days call for a comfortable chair and

a book! We love the Lord and the purpose of our lives is to know God and make Him known. I

am looking forward to getting to know you and I would love to chat with you the next time you

come into the clinic.

Rural Health Care Shortage

Recently, Dr. Lyman Wostrel had an editorial printed in several local papers. We have posted a picture of the article.

One of the goals of Zion Asher Family Physicians is to educate the public on how healthcare has gotten to where it is at. It’s complicated, yet simple. We hear the deep frustration over health care - yet see very few actually addressing root issues.

Have a read! We hope to go deeper into subjects like these in the future.

Letter to Editor.JPG

Apple Butter Makin' Days

So. It is very busy outside our newly opened clinic with ‘Apple Butter Makin’ Days’ going on. We are open, however, so that people can meet us and learn about Direct Primary Care. You are welcome to stop by and speak with us and ask your questions

Our promotion during ‘Apple Butter Makin’ Days’ is either $50 off the enrollment fee or, a large box of Pampers diapers for each of your children of diaper age if you sign up from Oct 11th - 13th. Click ‘Sign-Up’ on our website!


diapers.jpg

Another exciting development is that we have several of our medical wholesaler agreements in place allowing us to purchase your medications at wholesale and pass that savings on to you! But even better! If you have babies or toddlers, pay attention. We have secured wholesale hospital prices on Pampers diapers. We will pass that on to you, just covering our cost. Sign your family up! You will pay for your membership just in the price of diapers alone!

We Are Open!

After much preparation/work we are happy to announce that Zion Asher Family Physicians is open! If you don’t mind stepping over a box or two, you can pop your head in at the clinic to ask us questions and familiarize yourself with Direct Primary Care.

Our website is fully functional, including the signup page; so if you have been waiting, go for it! After signing up, we will contact you to have you come in for your initial visit.

IMG_5634.jpg

We understand that for many people, Direct Primary Care is a new thing. As such don’t be afraid to send us an email, call, or stop to ask the questions you might have. Our number is 417-730-1989. Our emails are drlymanwostrel@zionasher.com and drlaurenwostrel@zionasher.com Our clinic is located right across from the Post Office in Mount Vernon; if you see us sitting in the front office, come on in!

We are excited to offer a better, patient centered, experience at the doctors office. We are sure you will love it!

Clinic Building Finishing Soon!

“The best laid plans of mice and men.” Our remodel of the building across from the Mount Vernon Post Office certainly has taken a couple months longer than expected. But we expect to be open, “Very Soon.” As in September. Office Furniture was moved in on Saturday of last week. Tomorrow, we expect a crane to install the new AC system, the last major piece before we can be certain on timing. Fingers crossed for good weather! Here are a couple pictures of the work in progress.

Entry Office.jpg
Exam.jpg
Seating Area..jpg
IMG_5533.jpg
Lobby.JPG
Board Room.jpg
Entry.jpg

Worth the Wait!

I wanted to give a quick update on our progress in coming to Mount Vernon and the Southwest Missouri area. Everything is still on, but with a mild delay. Our building/remodeling still is pushing us out on an official open date, with our real estate guy working real hard to get us open for you as soon as possible. We are still hoping for a startup sometime in June.

We are still taking pre-signups. Since we do not have our building yet, we will not charge until we are officially open. We have had some patients sign up and want to begin care immediately. We have done that by going to them. But for most, we are confident the wait will be worth it! Direct Primary Care is such a breath of fresh air when combined with the status quo. Thanks for waiting with us!

Mount Vernon Business Expo

We will be at the Mount Vernon Business Expo tomorrow from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at The MARC, 822 West Mt. Vernon Blvd. Stop by to be the first to learn about your new Direct Primary Care physicians coming to Southwest Missouri.

zionasher1_final.jpg


We are also excited to talk about our new location, 212 East South Street - Right across from the Post Office. Remodeling is commencing soon! We are still targeting a 1st week of May open. We are now opening for Pre-Enrollment. If you are interested, go ahead and click the “Sign Up” button and fill in your information. Be assured you will not be charged until we schedule your first visit.