Dr. Joseph Sheppard | DPC Provider | DPC Directory
Family Medicine
About
Dr. Joseph Sheppard, D.O. grew up in Southeast Idaho where he worked on farms. After high school he served a two‑year mission for his church in Uruguay, an experience that sparked his commitment to serving diverse communities. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Print Journalism from Utah State University before attending the Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, graduating in 2011. While in medical school he wrote a medical economics blog titled “Free Market Physician,” exploring how primary care could be delivered more affordably without insurance.
He completed a Family Practice residency at the Cox Family Practice Residency in Springfield, MO, and then founded the Free Market Physician Clinic in Neosho, Missouri in 2014. The clinic operates as a Direct Primary Care (DPC) practice, offering patients same‑day access, unlimited visits, and transparent pricing without insurance billing. Dr. Sheppard emphasizes a patient‑centered approach, shared decision‑making, and continuous communication via phone, text, and email to build lasting doctor‑patient relationships.
Education
Medical School: Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (2011)
Residency: Family Medicine - Cox Family Practice Residency (Springfield MO)
- Residency Family Medicine - Cox Family Practice Residency (Springfield MO)
Board Certification & Credentials
Specialty: Family Medicine
Licensing
Community Involvement
Speaker at Rotary Club of Joplin (2024) discussing Direct Primary Care and health‑care reform
International Experience
Served a two‑year mission for his church in Uruguay
DPC Experience
Started DPC: 2014