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Open Enrollment

2025-10-13T13:24:39+00:00October 13th, 2025|Direct Primary Care, Open Enrollment, Public Health|

A Smarter Way to Protect Your Family This Open Enrollment: More Care, Less Cost

Every year, healthcare premiums rise while coverage seems to shrink. Families are paying more, small businesses feel squeezed, and many people avoid care because of surprise bills or endless insurance hurdles.

But this year’s Open Enrollment brings good news — and a chance to break the cycle.

What’s New This Year?

  • ✅ HSAs Can Now Cover DPC MembershipsThanks to recent law changes, you can now use your Health Savings Account (HSA) to pay for Direct Primary Care memberships — tax-free. That means predictable care at transparent prices, without losing HSA benefits.
  • ✅ Catastrophic Plans ExpandedAs of November 1, 2025, more people are eligible for low-premium catastrophic health plans. These plans cover worst-case scenarios while keeping monthly costs down.
  • ✅ Catastrophic + Bronze Plans Now HSA-CompatibleCertain catastrophic and Bronze high-deductible health plans are now recognized as HSA-eligible, giving families and small business owners even more flexibility to pair affordable coverage with DPC.

Discover how DPC fits your family’s health and budget

Why Pairing DPC With a Catastrophic Plan is a GAME CHANGER.

At Roots Health DPC, we offer membership care that makes sense for families and entrepreneurs alike:

  • Adults: $78–$98/month
  • Kids: $36/month
  • Labs: under $30 (often less than a typical copay)
  • X-rays: $60
  • MRIs: from $250
  • Medications: often cheaper than insurance copays

That means you can lower your monthly premium costs with a catastrophic plan — and still enjoy unlimited access to your physician, no copays, no surprise bills, and transparent pricing for everything else.

Who Benefits Most?

  • Individuals & Families: Convenient care without hassle. No avoiding visits because of surprise costs.
  • Small Business Owners: Affordable health options for yourself and employees.
  • Solopreneurs: Reliable, personal care with catastrophic coverage for peace of mind.

Take Action Before Open Enrollment Ends

Open Enrollment is your chance to stop overpaying and finally choose care that works for your family and your budget.

Open Enrollment won’t last — let’s review your options and build a plan that actually fits your family’s needs.

Don’t wait — enrollment deadlines come fast. This year, you have more choices. Let’s make them count.

Ovarian Cancer

2025-09-29T14:40:19+00:00September 29th, 2025|Cancer, Public Health|

Understanding Ovarian Cancer: What Every Woman Should Know

September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, a time to shed light on this often-overlooked disease. Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in the United States. Unfortunately, due to the lack of a reliable early detection test and the subtlety of its symptoms, it is often diagnosed at an advanced stage.

Recognizing the Symptoms

The symptoms of ovarian cancer can be vague and easily mistaken for other conditions. However, persistent symptoms that last for more than a few weeks should not be ignored. Common signs include:

  • Abdominal bloating or swelling
  • Quickly feeling full when eating
  • Pelvic or abdominal pain
  • Frequent urination
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Fatigue

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they are new or unusual for you, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider promptly.

Skip the stress—Roots Health DPC makes care simple and direct.

Understanding the Risk Factors

While ovarian cancer can occur in any woman, certain factors may increase the risk:

  1. Age: Most cases occur in women over the age of 50.
  2. Family history: A family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer may increase risk.
  3. Inherited gene mutations: BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations significantly raise the risk.
  4. Hormonal factors: Use of hormone replacement therapy may influence risk.

Importance of Early Detection

Early detection of ovarian cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes. While there is no standard screening test for ovarian cancer, determining your risk and discussing with your physician as well as staying vigilant about any unusual symptoms can aid in early detection.

At Roots Health DPC, we are committed to your health and well-being. If you have concerns about ovarian cancer or any other health issues, don’t hesitate to reach out. We offer complimentary consultations to discuss your health and any questions you may have.

Are your symptoms significant?

Menopause

2025-09-22T11:55:34+00:00September 22nd, 2025|Menopause, Public Health|

Navigating Menopause: Symptoms You Might Not Expect—and How to Manage Them

Menopause is more than hot flashes and night sweats. For many women, the transition brings a variety of symptoms that can affect daily life, from sleep disruption and fatigue to mood changes and joint aches. Recognizing what’s normal—and knowing how to manage it—can make this stage of life far more comfortable.

Common Menopause Symptoms

While each woman’s experience is unique, here are some of the issues frequently seen during perimenopause and menopause:

  1. Sleep Disruption: Trouble falling or staying asleep is common. Poor sleep can contribute to fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.
  2. Fatigue: Hormone fluctuations, sleep disturbances, and lifestyle factors can all contribute to feeling run-down.
  3. Mood Changes: Anxiety, irritability, or low mood can emerge, sometimes overlapping with other life stressors.
  4. Joint and Muscle Aches: Declining estrogen can increase inflammation and reduce natural lubrication, leading to stiffness or pain.
  5. Heart Palpitations: Short episodes of a racing or fluttering heart may occur, often linked to hot flashes.
  6. Weight and Body Composition Changes: Many women notice increased abdominal fat and decreased muscle mass during menopause.
  7. Sexual Health Changes: Decreased estrogen can cause vaginal dryness, discomfort during intercourse, and changes in libido.
  8. Urinary or Bladder Changes: Weakened pelvic floor muscles may lead to urgency, incontinence, or recurrent UTIs.
  9. Neurological Changes: “Brain fog,” difficulty focusing, or memory lapses are common during hormone fluctuations.
  10. Skin, Hair, and Nail Changes: Thinning hair, brittle nails, and drier skin can result from declining estrogen levels.

Learn how Direct Primary Care supports women through every stage of menopause.

What You Can Do to Feel Your Best

While menopause can be challenging, there are practical steps you can take to manage symptoms:

  1. Prioritize Sleep: Maintain a consistent bedtime, create a relaxing nighttime routine, and limit caffeine or electronics before bed.
  2. Stay Active: Regular exercise supports heart health, helps manage weight, and reduces joint stiffness.
  3. Eat for Hormone Balance: Focus on whole foods, fiber, lean protein, and healthy fats to support overall health.
  4. Mind Your Mental Health: Mindfulness, meditation, or therapy can help manage mood swings and anxiety.
  5. Pelvic Floor Care: Strengthening exercises can reduce urinary symptoms and improve sexual comfort.
  6. Consider Medical Options: Hormone therapy, non-hormonal medications, or supplements may be appropriate based on your individual needs—always under medical guidance.

Don’t Navigate Menopause Alone

Every woman’s experience is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. At Roots Health DPC, we take the time to listen, understand your symptoms, and collaborate with you on a personalized plan—so you can feel like yourself again.

Start managing your menopause symptoms with expert guidance and individualized care.

Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Awareness Month

2025-09-15T11:43:13+00:00September 15th, 2025|Direct Primary Care, Health Care, Public Health|

September Is AFib Awareness Month: Know the Signs, Protect Your Heart

September is Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Awareness Month, a time to shine a spotlight on one of the most common heart rhythm disorders. AFib affects millions of people, often without obvious symptoms, yet it can significantly increase your risk of stroke and other heart complications.

What Is AFib?

Atrial fibrillation is an irregular heartbeat. Instead of a steady, regular rhythm, the heart may beat too fast, too slow, or erratically. While some people notice palpitations, dizziness, or fatigue, others may have no symptoms at all—making regular screening especially important.

Common Signs and Symptoms

While AFib can be silent, watch for:
  • Irregular or rapid heartbeat
  • Palpitations (“fluttering” in the chest)
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Lightheadedness or dizziness
  • Chest discomfort

If you experience any of these, it’s important to talk to your physician. Early detection can prevent serious complications, including stroke or heart failure.

Discover how Roots Health DPC supports lifelong heart health.

 

Why Screening Matters

AFib often goes undiagnosed until a serious event occurs. A simple heart rhythm evaluation—like an ECG or wearable heart monitor—can detect irregularities early. Knowing your risk and catching AFib early allows for effective management and treatment, keeping your heart healthier for the long term.

How Roots Health DPC Can Help

At Roots Health DPC, we take the time to:
  • Review your heart health and risk factors
  • Offer individualized screenings for AFib and other cardiac conditions
  • Create personalized plans to manage and reduce risk
  • Provide ongoing support so you never have to navigate your health alone

Take Action This September

Don’t wait for symptoms to disrupt your life. Early detection of AFib can make all the difference in preventing complications.

Get a heart rhythm check—protect your heart and peace of mind.

Unseen Summer Pests

2025-09-08T13:12:52+00:00September 8th, 2025|Families, Public Health|

Cicada Mites: My Unexpected Summer Surprise

Late summer in my garden should have been relaxing. I was enjoying the sunshine, tending to my plants, and listening to the soft hum of summer insects. But the next morning, I noticed itchy red bumps spreading across my arms. At first, I thought it might be an allergic reaction to something I touched—but soon I realized this itchy rash was from something different: cicada mites.

What Are Cicada Mites?

Cicada mites (Pyemotes herfsi) are tiny, nearly invisible pests that usually feed on cicada eggs and other insects. During cicada emergences, they can bite humans, causing intense itching and small, red, raised bumps. The effect can be similar to an allergic reaction localized.

Healthcare shouldn’t feel complicated

 

Symptoms You Might Notice

Cicada mite bites/burrowing can cause:

  1. Intense itching—sometimes hours after exposure
  2. Red, raised bumps or welts, often on exposed skin
  3. Localized rash, commonly on the arms, neck, and upper torso
  4. Occasional secondary infection if bites are scratched repeatedly

For me, the itching was relentless and the lesions actually became “weepy.”

How I Managed It

I found relief through:

  • Topical steroid creams to calm inflammation
  • Oral antihistamines to control itching
  • Calamine lotion for soothing relief
  • COLD ice applied to soothe worked well

I also learned a few prevention tips to avoid future issues:

  • Avoid spending time near oak trees during peak cicada activity
  • Wear long sleeves and pants when gardening
  • Shower soon after outdoor activities to remove any mites on the skin

When to Seek Help

While cicada mite bites are usually harmless, severe reactions, widespread rashes, or persistent symptoms warrant a medical check-up. At Roots Health DPC, we provide personalized guidance to help you manage reactions, prevent complications, and get back to enjoying your summer.

Get relief and learn how to protect yourself.

HDL vs. LDL

2025-09-02T09:10:21+00:00September 2nd, 2025|Cholesterol, Public Health|

September Is National Cholesterol Education Month: What You Need to Know

When was the last time you checked your cholesterol? If it’s been a while—or if you’ve never known your numbers—September is the perfect time to start.

High cholesterol often has no symptoms, yet it plays a major role in heart disease, stroke, and other serious health conditions. The good news? By understanding your cholesterol levels and taking steps to manage them, you can significantly improve your long-term health.

What Is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fatty substance that circulates in your blood. Not all cholesterol is the same:
  • LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein): Often called “bad cholesterol” because high levels can build up in your arteries.
  • HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein): Known as “good cholesterol” because it helps clear LDL from the bloodstream.

The key is balance. Too much LDL or too little HDL increases your risk of heart problems.

Prevention starts here—see how DPC supports heart health.

 

Why It Matters

When cholesterol levels are off, plaque can build up in your arteries. Over time, this raises your risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. Since high cholesterol doesn’t cause obvious symptoms, the only way to know your levels is through a blood test.

Why It Matters

When cholesterol levels are off, plaque can build up in your arteries. Over time, this raises your risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. Since high cholesterol doesn’t cause obvious symptoms, the only way to know your levels is through a blood test.

How Roots Health DPC Can Help

Managing cholesterol isn’t one-size-fits-all. At Roots Health DPC, we provide:
  • Personalized Screenings – More than just a number, we look at your overall risk profile.
  • Custom Plans – Tailored lifestyle recommendations, nutrition guidance, and—if needed—medications or supplements.
  • Ongoing Support – Regular follow-ups to keep you on track and adjust your plan as your needs change.

Take Charge of Your Heart Health This Month

Don’t wait for a problem to appear—prevention is powerful. By checking your cholesterol now, you’re taking a proactive step toward protecting your heart for years to come.

Let’s work together to keep your heart strong and healthy.

Sleep Apnea

2025-08-25T22:30:50+00:00August 25th, 2025|Sleep|

Sleep Apnea: Don’t Ignore the Signs

Do you wake up tired, struggle to concentrate during the day, or battle frequent headaches? These could be more than signs of a busy lifestyle—they may be symptoms of sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea is one of the most common yet underdiagnosed sleep disorders. Left untreated, it can take a serious toll on your health, from chronic fatigue and mood changes to increased risks of heart disease, diabetes, and even stroke. Recognizing the symptoms early is the first step toward better health.

Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Snoring is the symptom most people associate with sleep apnea, but it’s far from the only one. Signs of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can include:

  • Loud snoring, often noticed by a partner
  • Daytime sleepiness or fatigue, no matter how much you sleep
  • Restless or fragmented sleep
  • Sudden awakenings with a choking or gasping feeling
  • Morning headaches
  • Trouble concentrating, forgetfulness, or irritability
  • Night sweats or frequent trips to the bathroom at night
  • Mood changes, sometimes mistaken for anxiety or depression
  • Sexual dysfunction

If several of these sound familiar, it’s worth talking to a doctor—because sleep apnea doesn’t get better on its own.

How is sleep apnea diagnosed?

The only way to know for sure is through a sleep study, which monitors your breathing and oxygen levels overnight. Your physician can help determine whether this is necessary and guide you through the process.

At Roots Health We get to the ROOT of the problem

Treatment Options

The good news: sleep apnea is treatable, and your plan can be tailored to your needs. Depending on the underlying cause, options may include:

  • Weight loss and lifestyle changes
  • Adjusting sleep position
  • Treating nasal or sinus issues
  • CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) therapy
  • Dental devices that help keep the airway open
  • Surgery, in more severe cases

The right treatment can be life-changing—improving energy, mood, focus, and long-term health.

Don’t Overlook the Signs

Too often, people dismiss fatigue or poor sleep as “normal.” But if you’re struggling with any of the symptoms above, don’t wait. Early screening and treatment can prevent serious health problems down the road.

Schedule your free initial consultation today and take the first step toward better sleep and better health.

Take the first step toward better sleep and better health.

How DPC Works for Families

2025-08-19T13:29:09+00:00August 19th, 2025|Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Health Care|

Concierge Care vs. Direct Primary Care:

What’s the Difference and Why DPC Is the Smarter Choice for Families

When it comes to primary care, many people are confused by the options. You may have heard terms like Concierge Medicine and Direct Primary Care (DPC) used interchangeably. But while they may sound similar, they are very different models of care—especially when it comes to cost, access, and who they’re really for.

If you’ve assumed DPC is just “concierge care by another name,” let’s set the record straight.

Not Just for the Wealthy: DPC Was Built for Everyday Families

Concierge care has often catered to the wealthy, with price tags to match—think $2,000+ annual fees on top of regular insurance costs.

At Roots Health DPC, we’ve taken a completely different approach: make high-quality, personalized primary care available and affordable for working families—whether you’re insured, underinsured, or not insured at all.

And it starts at prices that might surprise you:

  • Children: $36/month
  • Adults: $78/month

No copays. No surprise bills. No middlemen.

Ready to See the Difference?

 

So What’s the Difference? Let’s Break It Down:

Here’s a quick look at how Direct Primary Care (DPC) stacks up against Concierge Medicine:

Feature

Direct Primary Care (DPC)

Concierge Care

Monthly Fee

Low and affordable ($36–$78)

High annual retainer ($2,000+)

Insurance Required

❌ No

✅ Yes

Copays or Deductibles

❌ None

✅ Often required

Visit Time with Doctor

30–60 minutes

30–60 minutes

Same/Next-Day Appointments

 ✅Yes ✅Yes

Direct Doctor Messaging/Access

 ✅Yes

✅Yes

Focus

Affordability + Access

Luxury + Convenience

Ideal For

Families, individuals, small business employees

Wealthy executives

Why Roots Health DPC Just Makes More Sense

  1. ✅ Predictable monthly pricing for your whole family
  2. ✅ Direct access to your physician via call, text, or video
  3. ✅ Unlimited visits, longer appointment times, and no rushed care
  4. ✅ Chronic care management without added costs
  5. ✅ Same-day appointments when your child wakes up with a fever

You shouldn’t need a platinum credit card to get platinum-level care. And with Roots Health DPC, you don’t.

Still Think DPC Sounds “Too Good to Be True”?

We get it—when something offers this much value, people assume there’s a catch. But this is healthcare reimagined: no gimmicks, no hidden fees, just smarter care designed to help your family thrive.

It’s time to stop settling for overbooked doctors and overpriced insurance plans. Experience a model that works for you—not against you.

Simplify your family’s healthcare—without the stress.

Start School Strong with DPC

2025-08-11T14:23:48+00:00August 11th, 2025|Direct Primary Care, Public Health|

Back to School,

the Easy Way:

DPC Families Start the Year Strong

Backpacks are getting dusted off. Lunchboxes are reappearing. And kids? They’re bouncing between excitement and nerves.

It’s that time again—back-to-school season, and for most families, it comes with a checklist a mile long:

📝 School physicals

🩹 Updated vaccinations

😷 Coughs, colds, and lingering summer sniffles

🧠 A mental wellness and Routines reset

At Roots Health DPC, we’re here to make that list a little less overwhelming—and a lot more convenient.

Discover a better, family-centered way to do healthcare.

Last week, one mom from the practice called about her 8-year-old son who had a rash that wouldn’t go away. She was worried it might be something serious, so we got him in quickly. During the visit, as we were wrapping up the exam, and she hesitated for a second and said:

“Oh, shoot—I still need to schedule his school physical!”

Here’s the beauty of Direct Primary Care: she didn’t have to.

We just added the school physical right then and there—no second appointment, no waiting weeks to be seen, no juggling another calendar slot. She left with peace of mind, a healthy kid. The school physical form was completed…. and that was one more thing crossed off her list.

This is the kind of care families need—especially during busy seasons.

With DPC, you get:

  • Same or next-day appointments
  • No rushed visits—we handle everything you need in one stop
  • Care that fits into your life, not the other way around

Whatvere your healthcare needs… a school physical, stitches, a mental health check-in before the school year starts, or you just want to text your doctor with a quick question — you’re in the right place.

We’re here to partner with you to make this school year the healthiest one yet.

Want to experience a better way to get care for your family?

Back to Routine

2025-08-04T13:00:21+00:00August 4th, 2025|Direct Primary Care, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care|

How Are You Doing—Really?

I just got back from a break that stretched me in the best ways. My family and I traveled to two places I’d never been before: the Azores and Morocco. In the Azores, we saw limitless numbers of hydrangeas in bloom along the roadside and watched sperm whales in all their majestic splendor. We kept forging into new places and spent a night in the Moroccan desert—riding ATVS, eating under the stars, and meeting new people. An experience that made me feel at once small and at the same time very much alive.

It was magical. And unfamiliar. And fun.

But what really struck me was how good it felt to experience something new.

As a doctor, I often talk about the importance of healthy habits and steady routines. But here’s the other half of the story: our brains need change, too. New experiences help us grow, challenge old patterns, and create new neural connections. They wake us up.

Coming home has reminded me of how easy it is to fall back into the busy swirl of work, family, logistics, and caregiving.

So I want to gently ask you a question I’ve been asking myself: How are you doing—really?

Not just “holding it together.” But deep down. Are you fulfilled?

Do you sleep soundly? Do you feel rested, clear, and supported in your body and mind? Are you grateful for the life you are living?

If not—you’re not alone. And you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.

At Roots Health DPC, I offer personalized, direct primary care that’s centered around you. No rushed visits. No jumping through insurance hoops. Just thoughtful, comprehensive care built on real connection.

So if you’ve been putting yourself last—maybe this is the nudge to put yourself first again.

Book your complimentary consultation today.

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