Why I Chose Direct Primary Care: A Doctor’s Journey Back to the Heart of Medicine

A Note from Me

As we celebrate Doctors Day, I wanted to take a moment to introduce myself, and share the journey that led me to start my own direct primary care clinic right here in Woodbury, Minnesota.

I am Dr. Augustson, a board-certified Internist, wife, mom, baker, gardener—and someone who genuinely loves practicing medicine. Over the years, I realized the traditional healthcare system was no longer letting me care for patients the way they deserve.

I Love Being a Doctor, But I Knew Something Had to Change.

I decided to practice general Internal Medicine because of the depth of relationships and the opportunity to care for the whole person—not just their symptoms. However, after years of working in large healthcare systems, I started to feel like something was missing. Appointments were rushed. Insurance red tape got in the way. I barely had enough time to hear my patients’ full stories, let alone address everything they needed. That is when I started to dream about something different.

Starting My Own Practice Was Terrifying, But Also Completely Right

Let’s be honest—change is hard. I was scared to step away from the familiar and start something new. However, once I did, I realized how much better it feels to practice medicine in a way that’s built around patients, not the bottom line.

Since opening my clinic in August 2024, I have felt more connected to my work than ever before. I am deeply grateful to the patients who followed me into this new chapter and to the new ones who are finding me and placing their trust in me. It’s an incredible privilege, and one I do not take for granted.

Why I Chose Woodbury, Minnesota

When I decided to open my own practice, I knew exactly where I wanted to do it. Right here in Woodbury.

This is home. It is where my family and I live, where we attend kids activities on Saturdays and church on Sundays. I specifically chose to include “Woodbury” in the name of my clinic because I wanted to build a medical home for our community: something familiar, accessible, and personal.

What is Direct Primary Care?

If you have never heard of Direct Primary Care (DPC), you are not alone. Here is how it works:

Instead of billing insurance for every visit or message, patients pay a simple, affordable monthly membership fee. This allows us to offer:

• Same- or next-day appointments

• Longer, unrushed visits

• Direct access by text or phone

• Transparent pricing and no surprise bills

• A focus on prevention and true continuity of care

You can think of it as having a concierge doctor, without the concierge price tag.

A New Chapter in Patient-Centered Care

I have loved every moment of this DPC journey so far. I get to spend meaningful time with patients, practice exceptional medicine, and witness the difference this model makes in people’s lives.

I believe Direct Primary Care has the power to restore people’s faith in healthcare, and I am proud to be part of that change, right here in the community I call home.

If you are looking for a primary care doctor in the Twin Cities who takes the time to truly know you, I would love to welcome you to my practice.

With gratitude,

Dr. Neli Augustson

Board-Certified Internal Medicine Physician

Founder, Woodbury Direct Primary Care