Mission & History

Due to a lack of primary care physicians, a solution to the healthcare problem is not possible without the assistance of under-employed care professionals. In the last decade, the number of physician assistants (PA) and nurse practitioners (NP) has grown drastically. There is a large number of compassionate, highly trained professionals who, if operating in a properly structured system, can provide excellent, accessible care. Registered nurses (RNs) are also underutilized. Their clinical skills and ability to help patients navigate the healthcare system are great assets to any care team.

Big Tree Medical was founded in Missouri, where 110 of the 114 counties are experiencing a shortage of primary care. In fact, only the most affluent areas have access to adequate primary care. Billions of dollars have been invested in primary care startups in the affluent neighborhoods of cities like Boston and San Francisco where wealthy Americans can simply text their care team or get a same-day appointment with the doctor they have known for years. Meanwhile, the average American is experiencing a 3-week wait for a doctor’s appointment. The traditional healthcare system has incentivized doctors to avoid primary care as their practice area and the result is killing Americans. 

Technology could play a dramatic role in primary care accessibility. Like telemedicine companies, Big Tree Medical has adapted to the use of text messaging and video appointments as a form of primary care. However, Big Tree isn’t directing patients to doctors and nurses they’ve never met and will never interact with again. We provide our patients with a dedicated care team they know and trust. These care teams can help members with primary care concerns like acute and chronic conditions, mental health needs, and preventative care needs. But unlike traditional primary care, patients actually get an amazing experience with plenty of time for visits and little or no wait.