Podcast Episode Summary: DPC Pediatrician — Zest Pediatric Network

Host: Dr. Marina Capella

Guests: Dr. Drew Hertz & Dr. Keili Mistovich (Co-founders, Zest Pediatric Network)

Episode Overview:

This episode features an in-depth conversation with Dr. Drew Hertz and Dr. Keili Mistovich, co-founders of the Zest Pediatric Network. The discussion centers on how Zest is transforming the landscape for pediatricians interested in Direct Primary Care (DPC) by providing a supportive, collaborative network model that lowers barriers to entry, maintains physician autonomy, and enhances patient care.

Key Highlights

Why Zest Pediatric Network Was Created

* Zest was founded to make it easier for pediatricians to enter the DPC model, especially for those who are hesitant to manage all business and clinical responsibilities alone.

* The network aims to lower barriers for doctors who may not have business experience or resources to start independent practices.

* The founders believe every pediatrician should have access to the DPC model, not just those with entrepreneurial backgrounds.

Team-Based Approach

* Zest operates on the philosophy that "DPC is a team sport," offering pediatricians the benefits of independence with the support of a collaborative team.

* The network provides two main types of support: Business Team: Handles back-office operations, freeing doctors from administrative burdens so they can focus on patient care. Clinical Team: Offers cross-coverage among doctors, making it easier to take vacations and manage time off without compromising patient care.

Expanded Services Through Economies of Scale

* By pooling resources, Zest offers access to additional professionals—nutritionists, sleep consultants, lactation consultants, psychologists—who support comprehensive pediatric care.

* These services would be difficult for solo practitioners to afford or coordinate independently, but are feasible when shared across multiple offices.

Network Structure and Autonomy

* Each doctor operates as an independent LLC, preserving their autonomy and preventing the network from becoming a corporate healthcare system.

* Zest emphasizes a "servant leadership" model, where the network supports the physicians rather than employing them, and clinical support professionals are also independent contractors.

* The structure allows doctors to have equity in the network and a say in its development and direction.

Operational Efficiency and Growth

* Zest has successfully launched multiple offices (three in Cleveland, two in Pittsburgh) and can help new practices become operational quickly—sometimes within three months.

* The network manages everything from patient onboarding to administrative tasks, allowing doctors to focus solely on clinical care.

Integration and Community Partnerships

* Zest has established contracts with schools, Medicaid, and therapy centers, enabling broader service offerings such as autism assessments and evaluations.

* The network's unified electronic medical record (EMR) system allows seamless sharing of patient information among the team, ensuring coordinated care.

Maintaining the DPC Ethos

* The founders stress their commitment to preserving physician autonomy and avoiding the pitfalls of corporate medicine, which many DPC doctors seek to escape.

* Decision-making within the network prioritizes the independence and preferences of member physicians.

Notable Quotes

"DPC is a team sport because not everybody wants to go it alone."

"We work for the doctors. The doctors don't work for us."

"Maintaining autonomy for our physicians is always front of mind when making decisions about the network."

Conclusion

Zest Pediatric Network offers a unique, scalable solution for pediatricians interested in DPC. By combining business and clinical support, expanding access to ancillary services, and maintaining physician autonomy, Zest enables doctors to focus on what they love—caring for children—while enjoying the benefits of teamwork and shared resources.