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Travel Smarter with DPC

2025-07-28T14:40:26+00:00July 28th, 2025|Direct Primary Care, Public Health|

Jet Lag, Germs & Global Travel: Why International Trips Can Hit Hard

(And How to Travel Smarter with DPC)

Ever notice how a “trip of a lifetime” abroad can leave you feeling… totally wrecked?

The jet lag is brutal. Your stomach’s off. You’re not sure if the coffee is helping or hurting. And somewhere between adjusting to local time and trying to avoid sunburned, you realize: traveling internationally is no joke for your body.

But most people think the only fix is to just “push through.”

That’s where I come in.

Your Body Has a Clock—And Travel Throws It Off

Every time you cross multiple time zones, your circadian rhythm gets disrupted. That’s the internal clock that governs everything from sleep and energy to digestion and mood. And when it’s off, your entire system has to scramble to recalibrate.

So how do we fix it faster?

🕶️ Light exposure – Morning light helps reset your internal clock to your new location. Get outside within the first hour of waking. Avoid bright screens at night to keep melatonin levels normal.

☕ Caffeine – Yes, you can use it—but strategically. Use caffeine in the morning at your destination to stay alert. Skip it after 2 PM local time so you’re not sabotaging your sleep.

💊 Melatonin – This is your body’s “sleep cue.” I usually recommend 0.5 to 3 mg about 30 minutes before your new bedtime for a few nights once you arrive. It helps re-sync your rhythm without grogginess.

🛫 Start adjusting before you go – If possible, shift your bedtime and wake time 1–2 hours toward your destination’s time zone a few days before your trip.

Travel Healthy with a Doctor Who Supports YOU.

But Wait, What About the Other Kind of Travel Prep…

When patients tell me they’re traveling internationally, I always ask:

“Have you checked your destination’s vaccine and medication requirements yet?”

Cue blank stares.

Because let’s be honest, the CDC travel site is not user-friendly. It feels like you need a PhD in epidemiology just to figure out if you need a typhoid shot, malaria meds, or a yellow fever card.

The reality?

Getting it right matters.

You don’t want to realize at the airport that you needed proof of a vaccine—or worse, wind up in a remote area without the meds to prevent a totally avoidable illness.

DPC Makes Travel Simpler, Safer, and Smarter

When you’re in my practice, you don’t have to go it alone. Whether you’re heading to Italy or Indonesia, we walk through it together:

✅ I decode the CDC guidance for your destination

✅ We plan circadian rhythm strategies to fight jet lag

✅ You get the right vaccines, refills, and travel meds on time

✅ And you get peace of mind knowing your doctor travels with you (virtually, of course)

Travel-Ready Care Starts Before You Pack

Don’t wait until you’re already on a plane with the wrong meds and no plan for sleep.

We’re not full yet—but we’re getting close. If you’ve got international travel coming up, now’s the time to join the practice and prep like a pro.

Get travel-ready care without the guesswork

EXHAUSTION

2025-07-14T13:03:49+00:00July 14th, 2025|Families, Family Medicine, Health Care, Public Health|

Feeling Wiped Out?

3 Questions Reveal What Your Body’s Really Telling You

You’re not sleeping well.

Your energy crashes every afternoon.

You’re foggy, irritable, and tired—even after a weekend “off.”

It’s easy to blame it on burnout, the kids’ summer schedule, or just “getting older.”

But let me be clear: chronic exhaustion isn’t something you just have to live with.

The truth is, when someone tells me they’re feeling wiped out, I don’t assume it’s just stress or overdoing it. I start asking root-cause questions—the kind that reveal what your body’s really trying to say.

Question 1: Is This Physical, Hormonal, or Emotional Fatigue?

Fatigue is a signal—but the source isn’t always obvious. Here’s what we need to rule out first:

🔬 Anemia – Especially in menstruating women or those with low iron stores. Even “mild” anemia can cause crushing fatigue.

🧠 Thyroid dysfunction – Low thyroid hormone can mimic depression and zap your energy, focus, and mood.

😴 Sleep apnea – If you’re waking up tired after a “full night’s sleep,” this is one to investigate—especially if you snore or feel sluggish midday.

⚖️ Perimenopause/menopause – Hormone shifts can cause brain fog, insomnia, mood swings, and extreme fatigue that feel totally disorienting.

💭 Depression or high-functioning burnout – Many women push through for months before realizing their low energy and motivation aren’t “normal.”

All of these issues present with similar symptoms—but require very different treatment plans. And that’s why a quick “you’re just stressed” from a rushed visit won’t cut it.

You’re not lazy. You need answers—and we’re here to help.

Question 2: What Does True Rest Look Like For You?

Spoiler alert: zoning out on the couch or scrolling your phone isn’t real rest.

Your body needs restorative inputs, not just time off. In my practice, we often talk about the difference between:

🧘‍♀️ Restorative rest – sleep hygiene, nervous system regulation, quiet time

🍷 Escapism – wine, screens, or numbing out when you feel overwhelmed

🧩 Alignment – the activities that actually recharge you, not drain you

Sometimes fatigue isn’t about illness—it’s about disconnection from what your body and brain actually need to recover.

Question 3: What Patterns Are Emerging?

One of the best things about Direct Primary Care? I know my patients’ stories.

When you’re in my care, we’re not starting from scratch every visit. I track your labs over time, notice your stress triggers, and look for patterns—seasonal dips, hormone cycles, major life transitions. It’s how we catch issues early before they escalate into burnout, hormone imbalance, or chronic illness.

Energy Isn’t Just About Willpower

You’re not lazy or “making it up” and you don’t need to “just push through.”

You might need a custom iron plan. Or a thyroid adjustment. Or help navigating perimenopause. Or a deeper look into sleep quality.

The point is: your body has a reason—and you deserve a doctor who takes the time to help you find it.

The Kind of Care Our Members Get Daily

At my DPC practice, you’re not a chart or a checklist. You’re a whole person and the relationship between physician and patient is front and center. When your energy is low, we listen. We test. We uncover. We treat at the root cause.

We get to the bottom of your symptoms.

The DPC difference

2025-07-07T14:46:57+00:00July 7th, 2025|Direct Primary Care, Health Care|

We Didn’t Go to the ER—Because We Didn’t Have To.

(And That’s the DPC Difference.)

Last month, one of my DPC families had a moment—you know the kind. It was early evening, the toddler had a fever and a weird rash, and mom was doing mental gymnastics trying to decide:

  • ER (ugh, the cost)?
  • Urgent care (are they even open)?
  • Wait it out (but what if it’s something serious)?

This family had been burnt by rushed visits and medical bills that felt like a second rent payment. But this time it was different—because they’re part of our DPC practice.

Instead of panicking or packing snacks for an all-nighter in the ER, mom pulled out her phone and sent me a picture of the rash.

We hopped on a quick video call. I asked a few key questions, gave her clear guidance, and followed up the next day to make sure things were improving.

Spoiler alert: The fever broke, the rash faded, and they never left the house.

A video call and a plan—instead of panic.

 

Why DPC Changes the Equation

It’s not just about convenience (though yes, texting your doctor in pajamas is pretty great). It’s about access—to medical advice that’s timely, clear, and from someone who knows your child and your values.

When you’re part of a DPC practice, your care isn’t bound by appointment slots or billing codes. It’s a relationship. And when something feels urgent—even if it’s not an emergency—you don’t have to figure it out alone.

You don’t have to Google.

You don’t have to guess.

You don’t have to go to the ER “just in case.”

You can just… text your doctor.

Real Care. Real Time. No Rushed Decisions.

This family spent the rest of their night watching Encanto and snuggling, not sitting under fluorescent hospital lights.

DPC gives you—freedom from panic, from surprise bills, and from care that feels cold or disconnected.

We’re Filling Fast—

If you’ve ever second-guessed whether your kid’s symptoms were “bad enough” to call someone, you’re not alone. But there’s a better way.

No urgent care. No guessing.

Why DPC Matters

2025-06-30T14:26:15+00:00June 30th, 2025|Direct Primary Care, Health Care|

Health needs do not take vacation. Travel with peace of mind and take your DPC doctor with you.

Ever been sick on vacation?

One of my patients recently returned from a much-anticipated trip to Arizona—a week of hiking red rocks, spa days, and sipping prickly pear margaritas by the pool. But on day three, something unexpected showed up: a Urinary Tract Infection.

If you’ve ever had one, you know it does not matter how scenic the view is or how much you paid for your hotel. Unexpected health care needs can ruin your day.

She started having that all-too-familiar urinary urgency and burning, and by bedtime, she was panicking.

The options?

  • Wait until morning to try and get an urgent care appointment
  • Pay out of pocket and sit in a waiting room in a city she didn’t know
  • Miss out on her only full day at the Grand Canyon

OR REMEMBER—she’s a Direct Primary Care (DPC) patient.

So texted her doc.

Within 20 minutes, she had the prescription she needed sent to the pharmacy near her. She picked it up, popped in her AirPods, and took the sunset trail walk she’d been planning. No wasted time. No missed opporunities to experience the magic of adventure.

Discover why DPC makes all the difference—anywhere.

Why DPC Matters—Even When You’re on Vacation

This wasn’t a life-threatening emergency—but it was urgent. And like so many of life’s minor hiccups, it didn’t happen during business hours or within city limits.

Direct Primary Care removes the barriers. It means having a doctor who travels with you—virtually, through your phone, wherever you go.

I know that peace of mind matters—especially to busy parents, caretakers, and professionals who already carry the weight of planning everything for everyone.

Because the truth is, when you’re the one holding everything together, you can’t afford to get derailed by something simple that’s preventable or treatable… if only you had access.

Back to the Pool—and the Point

Thanks to DPC, this patient hiked Horseshoe Bend, caught her spa appointment, and even joked with me later that the prescription was ready before her coffee order.

Health hiccups are inevitable. But scrambling to get care when you’re away from home does not have to be.

Spots Are Limited—

I created this practice because I believe in accessible, human-first healthcare—and it’s catching on. We’re not full yet, but we’re getting close.

If you’ve ever wished your doctor was just a text away (on vacation or not), it might be time to join a different kind of care.

Be the first in line when new spots open.

High Blood pressure

2025-05-26T14:09:15+00:00May 26th, 2025|Direct Primary Care, Family Medicine, Health Care, Public Health|

Why Blood Pressure Matters

Blood pressure is critical to our overall health as it affects all the organs of our body. When we leave high blood pressure unchecked… it can lead to stroke, heart disease, and kidney disease to name a few. Avoiding complications from high blood pressure is simple once we understand what it is and how to manage it.

Looking for a holistic approach for health care?

 

What Numbers Are Too High?

Blood pressure measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart is contracting and pumping (systolic) and the measurement when your heart is relaxed and filling (diastolic). An optimal reading is less than 140/90 mmHg and sometimes lower if you have other conditions.

KNOW YOUR NUMBERS

What Causes High Blood Pressure Readings?

Blood pressure can fluctuate based on several factors including diet, stress, sleep, lifestyle, and exercise. It can also be affected by underlying medical conditions that you may not even know you have (kidney disease, hormonal imbalances, and heart/lung conditions to name a few). The key is to check your blood pressure and not ignore a high reading.

Blood pressure can be lowered without medication. Addressing underlying disease and optimizing wellness can dramatically lower your blood pressure and increase the length of your life.

Avoid high blood pressure. Get great care.

Spot Skin Cancer Early

2025-05-19T12:44:35+00:00May 19th, 2025|Public Health, Skin Cancer|

Skin Changes That Matter

What are the skin changes you shouldn’t ignore? Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Doing a skin self-exam and knowing the warning signs are for melanoma are key. Increase your chances of spotting skin cancer early.

How to perform a skin self-exam?

Examine your body in a full-length mirror-Examine your body front and back in a mirror, then look at the right and left sides with your arms raised.

Look at your underarms, forearms, and palms-Bend your elbows and look carefully at your forearms, underarms, and palms.

Look at your legs, between toes, and soles of your feet-Look at the backs of your legs and feet, the spaces between your toes, and the soles of your feet.

Use a hand mirror to examine your neck and scalp-Examine the back of your neck and scalp with a hand mirror. Part your hair for a closer look at your scalp.

If you see skin changes, say something to your doctor.

Remember the “ABCDE rule”

Note changes in moles or birthmarks that can be warning signs of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.

  • A- Asymmetry where one half looks different from the other
  • B- Borders of the mole that are irregular or not sharply demarcated
  • C- Color is varied from one area to another
  • D- Diameter over 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser)
  • E- Evolving or changing in size shape or color

Are you looking for a physician that you know and trust?

Better Sleep Month

2025-05-12T13:10:26+00:00May 12th, 2025|Direct Primary Care, Family Medicine, Health Care, Public Health, Sleep|

The Path to Restful Sleep

May is Better Sleep Month, highlighting the importance of quality rest and how poor sleep can impact overall health. Many adults struggle with insomnia and restless nights. Sometimes sleeplessness isn’t just about stress or a busy schedule.

The Story: From Sleepless Nights to Restful Sleep

One of my favorite patients, a 42-year-old marketing executive and busy mom, was struggling with poor sleep… for years. She was frustrated and running out of options. At her intake visit it was revealed that she would toss and turn for hours, waking up exhausted and irritable. Over-the-counter sleep aids worked a little, but the grogginess and dependence on them weren’t sustainable.

We took a comprehensive approach to her sleep struggles. This was different from her previous experience with quick visits and a perscription for a pill as the solution.

See how our personalized model goes beyond the quick fix.

 

The Root Cause: More Than Just Stress

After a thorough evaluation and in-depth conversation, we uncovered a few key factors contributing to her insomnia:

  1. Lifestyle Habits: Late-night screen time and caffeine intake were interfering with her sleep cycle.
  2. Underlying Health Condition: Bloodwork revealed an undiagnosed thyroid imbalance, which can significantly impact sleep quality.
  3. Medication side effects: This patient was taking 2 different types of medication (one for her asthma and on for her ADHD) that were contributing to her poor sleep.

The Solution: A Personalized Sleep Plan

Instead of simply prescribing a sleep aid, we focused on long-term solutions:

  1. Lifestyle Adjustments: We guided this mom what works for her kids… routine. We created a consistent bedtime routine, reducing blue light exposure before bed, and adjusting her diet to support sleep.
  2. Medical Support: Treating her thyroid condition helped stabilize her energy levels, naturally improving her ability to sleep. We adjusted her asthma and ADHD meds to avoid side effects in the evening.
  3. Stress Management: With mindfulness techniques and small habit changes, we helped her get to a place of peace and unwind before bed, which led to deeper more restorative sleep.

 

The Results: Sleeping Better, Feeling Better

Within weeks, she noticed significant improvement—she fell asleep faster, stayed asleep longer, and woke up feeling refreshed. She finally had the energy and mental clarity to tackle her busy days without relying on excess caffeine and sheer willpower.

Struggling with Sleep? Let’s Find a Solution Together.

If you’re experiencing persistent insomnia, or daytime fatigue, it might be time to take a closer look at the underlying causes. At our Direct Primary Care practice, we offer personalized, comprehensive care to help you get to the root of your health concerns—so you can finally sleep soundly.

Ready for a Personalized Care?

Asthma Awareness Month

2025-05-05T13:41:26+00:00May 5th, 2025|Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care|

 Common Misconceptions About Asthma

May is Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month—a perfect time to clear up common misconceptions about asthma. Many people assume that asthma is only a problem during physical activity or in response to obvious triggers like dust colds or smoke. However, one of the most overlooked signs of asthma is something many parents might not realize—nighttime coughing.

Is Your Child’s Nighttime Cough a Sign of Asthma?

Many parents assume that an occasional cough at night is due to a lingering cold or seasonal allergies. However, persistent coughing—especially at night—can be a key indicator of uncontrolled asthma.

Asthma-related coughing often worsens at night because of changes in airway function, exposure to allergens like dust mites, and the body’s natural circadian rhythms. Unlike a typical cold, which resolves within a couple of weeks, asthma-related coughing tends to persist and can interfere with sleep quality. If your child frequently wakes up coughing, it’s something to discuss with your doctor.

Knoweldge from a trusted source.

 

Common Asthma Myths—Busted!

  • Myth: Asthma is only triggered by exercise.

    Truth: While exercise-induced asthma is real, triggers can also include allergens, heartburn, weather changes, and even stress. Asthma is a chronic condition that requires control to avoid ongoing lung damage.

  • Myth: If my child isn’t wheezing, it’s not asthma.

    Truth: Wheezing is a common asthma symptom, but some individuals—especially children—experience chronic coughing instead. This can be known as “cough-variant asthma.”

  • Myth: My child will outgrow asthma.

    Truth: While some children’s symptoms improve with age, asthma is considered a lifelong condition. Proper management, including identifying triggers and having a personalized care plan, is key to keeping symptoms under control.

  • Myth: Inhalers are only needed during an attack.

    Truth: Many people with asthma use daily controller inhaler medications to prevent flare-ups, not just a rescue inhaler when symptoms get worse. Consistent management helps prevent future attacks.

Convenient, Hassle-Free Care for Busy Families

As a working mom, you already juggle a full plate—so managing your family’s health should be simple and stress-free. At our Direct Primary Care practice, we provide personalized, accessible care without the long waits or insurance headaches. Whether you need a comprehensive asthma action plan, prescription management, or just peace of mind, we’re here to help.

The Healthcare that your Family Deserves

Direct Primary Care

2025-04-28T11:21:51+00:00April 28th, 2025|Direct Primary Care|

Why Choose Direct Primary Care?

Many are frustrated with the existing health care system….long waits, rushed appointments, and surprise bills. For those that know they want a better choice, exploring Direct Primary Care (DPC) is a great idea. At Roots Health DPC, we are re-defining health CARE by putting patients at the center of everything we do. You should consider making the switch to DPC today.

Frustrated with the status quo?

 

What is Direct Primary Care (DPC)?

DPC is a healthcare model that prioritizes direct old school relationships between patients and their physicians. Insurance companies no longer dictate how you receive care. Families pay a flat monthly fee, which covers a wide range of services, from routine visits to preventive care. This model allows for greater personalized care.

Top 5 Benefits of Direct Primary Care for Families

1. Access to Your Doctor
Imagine having unlimited access to your physician. At Roots Health DPC, we believe health concerns shouldn’t wait. If you have an urgent question you can be seen the same day. You can easily reach your doctor via text, phone, or email, eliminating long wait times.
 

2. More Time During the Visit

In a typical healthcare setting, you might only get 10-15 minutes with your doctor. These rushed visits can leave your questions unanswered and your concerns unaddressed. At Roots Health DPC, we take a different approach. Our appointments are longer, ranging from 30 minutes to an hour, allowing for thorough discussions, detailed exams, and personalized treatment plans that truly cater to your family’s needs.
 

3. Transparent and Affordable Pricing

Navigating health insurance copays, deductibles and out-of-pocket expenses can feel overwhelming. With DPC, you’ll enjoy straightforward pricing with no hidden costs. Our membership model covers all visits, consultations, and in-office procedures, giving you peace of mind about your healthcare expenses. Say goodbye to surprise bills.
 

4. Focus on Preventive Care

Keeping your family healthy is key and we can emphasize prevention rather than just treat symptoms. We prioritize routine checkups, wellness visits, and chronic disease management, ensuring your family remains healthy and avoids unnecessary medical events. Whether it’s managing diabetes or addressing mental health concerns, our focus is on proactive care.
 

5. A Personalized Relationship with Your Doctor

Continuity of care is key to effective healthcare. Seeing a different doctor each time you visit can disrupt your health plan of care. At Roots Health DPC, you’ll work with the same physician consistently, fostering a strong relationship built on trust. We take the time to understand your family’s medical history, lifestyle, and health goals, leading to better, more personalized care.

Find healthcare that fits your family’s needs

Should you Choose Roots Health DPC for Your Family?

At Roots Health DPC, we’re passionate about providing a modern healthcare experience with the warmth of old-school service. Our family-centric approach emphasizes quality over quantity, ensuring that every family member, from children to adults, receives the attention they deserve.

If you’re ready to prioritize your family’s health and enjoy a more personalized, stress-free healthcare experience, it’s time to make the switch to Roots Health Direct Primary Care. Join us today and experience healthcare that truly puts your family first.

Earth Day

2025-04-21T13:22:36+00:00April 21st, 2025|Families, Public Health|

The Environment and Your Health

When we think about health, we often focus on diet, exercise, and medical care—but what about the air we breathe, the water we drink, or even the materials in our homes? This Earth Day, let’s talk about how environmental factors impact health and why being mindful of our surroundings is just as important as routine checkups.

Your Local Environment & Your Health

From air pollution to water quality, environmental factors play a direct role in well-being. In the Midwest, for example, radon exposure is a known risk, leading to lung health concerns. Many people are unaware of these hidden dangers, making regular environmental screenings and awareness essential for long-term health.

Knowledge is power! Protect your health and make good choices.

 

A Smarter, Greener Approach to Health

Your body thrives when you reduce toxins, eat nourishing foods, and support your immune system naturally. Choosing whole, organic foods, limiting exposure to harmful chemicals, and incorporating immune-boosting habits like proper hydration, quality sleep, and stress management can significantly impact overall wellness. By making greener choices, you are protecting the planet AND creating the healthiest possible environment for your body to function at its best.

Take control of your health with a complimentary wellness consultation!

 

Take Control of Your Health & Environment

A healthier planet leads to healthier, longer lives. Book a complimentary wellness consultation today to learn how your environment may be affecting your health and what steps you can take for a cleaner, safer future.

We take a digital-first approach to care, eliminating paper waste and making your healthcare more efficient, accessible, and eco-friendly.

Schedule your session today!

© Copyright 2020 Roots-MD LLC, dba Roots Health DPC
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