About Us
As an all-physician Direct Primary Care practice in Reno, NV, Preferred Family Medicine is dedicated to you and your health without the unnecessary intrusion of insurance companies.
We believe that the best primary care medicine is both personal and affordable, and that’s what we offer.
Primary care is all we do, so let us restore your faith in health care. Experience a patient-doctor relationship based on trust and respect; the type of relationship every patient deserves.
Our patient benefits include full access to primary care, meaning you will have more time with your provider, 24/7 access for acute medical issues, no co-pays, and no limit on visits.
Your monthly membership fee covers general adult physicals, women’s healthcare, newborn and pediatric care, wellness education, chronic disease management, minor procedures, and care coordination with specialists when needed.
We also offer the added convenience of in-house phlebotomy, discounted labs, and an in-house pharmacy for dispensing deeply discounted medications, ensuring you have access to care whenever you need it.
Are you curious to learn more about Direct Primary Care and our practice? Click here for answers to your questions.
Our Doctors
So Hines, DO
Dr. So Hines is a family medicine physician dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care for patients of all ages. Raised in Reno, Nevada, she brings a strong sense of community and a patient-centered approach to every encounter.
Her practice emphasizes evidence-based medicine and shared decision-making, with a focus on building long-term relationships that support the health and well-being of individuals and families alike.
Outside of medicine, Dr. Hines enjoys spending time with her family and friends, hiking, and baking—activities that keep her grounded, active, and inspired.
Professional Experience
- Carson Tahoe Medical Group – Carson City, NV
Family Medicine Physician - Northern Nevada HOPES – Reno, NV
Physician - U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – Reno, NV
Primary Care Physician - Northwest Washington Family Medicine Residency – Bremerton, WA
St. Michael Medical Center · Completed Sept 2021
Leadership & Certifications
- Ethics Committee Representative
St. Michael Medical Center · Jun 2020–Sept 2021 - Basic Life Support (BLS) – current
Education
- Touro University Nevada College of Osteopathic Medicine – Henderson, NV
Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine · May 2018 - University of Nevada, Reno – Reno, NV
Premedical coursework · May 2014 - University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, MI
Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering, Cum Laude · Dec 2008
Licensure
- Nevada Osteopathic Physician License
- Washington Osteopathic Physician & Surgeon License
Professional Memberships
- American Academy of Family Physicians
- American Osteopathic Association
Jeremy Bearfield M.D., Ph.D.
“As a dedicated family medicine physician serving Northern Nevada, I prioritize your well-being, free from the constraints of insurance companies.
I firmly believe that exceptional primary care is rooted in personal, one-on-one interactions.
My exclusive focus is on comprehensive primary care, allowing me to rekindle your confidence in healthcare.
Embrace a patient-physician relationship built on trust and mutual respect — the kind of partnership every patient should expect and receive.”
-Dr. Bearfield
Experience
Northern Nevada Medical Group
Board Certified Family Medicine Physician
July 2014 – December 2023
Northern Nevada Medical Center
Hospital Physician
May 2015 – December 2020
West Hills Hospital
Staff Physician
October 2015 – December 2021
Postgraduate Training
Department of Family Medicine, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno NV
Internship and Residency
July 2011 – July 2014
Chief Resident 2013 - 2014
Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nevada, Reno NV
Postdoctoral Research Fellow
January 2005 – August 2007
Education
M.D. - University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno NV
May 2011
Vice President of UNSOM Class 2011
Ph.D. - Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nevada, Reno NV
December 2004
Graduated with degree in Biochemistry
A.A. - Department of Business and Social Sciences, Mount Marty College, Yankton SD
May 1999
Graduated Cum Laude with degree in Business Administration
B.A. – Department of Natural Sciences, Mount Marty College, Yankton SD
May 1998
Graduated Cum Laude with a double major in Biology and Chemistry
Christopher C. Highley D.O.
Dr. Christopher Highley has over 25 years of experience in the primary care medical space. Having worked on the front line of healthcare, Dr. Highley has garnered an acumen of skills at the point-of-care, treating patients of all ages and just about every conceivable problem. He is not only passionate about patient care, but optimizing the experience for both the doctor and the patient. He is especially skilled in developing a rapport with his patients, and takes the time needed to explain medical conditions.
After practicing in Carson City, NV for 15 years, Dr. Highley opened the first Direct Primary Care office in Reno, NV in August 2018. The concierge Direct Primary Care model allows Dr. Highley to continue to provide the highest quality care, while continuing to focus on his patients’ needs with unmatched convenience. The DPC model allows for more time and attention with regards to patient care. Learn more about Direct Primary Care here and Dr. Highley's practice model here.
Not sure what a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) is? Here is a pretty good summary: What is a D.O.?
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DR. HIGHLEY'S EXPERIENCE:
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Preferred Family Medicine - President 2018 - present
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Private Group Practice, Carson City, NV - 2003-2018
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Senior FAA Designated Aviation Medical Examiner (AME)
2006 - present
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Clinical Assistant Professor, Dept. of Medical Education at University of Nevada School of Medicine
2006-presentPreceptor Clinical Externships
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Adjunct Instructor Family Medicine at Touro University Nevada
2006-presentPreceptor Medical Students during Clinical Externships
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Major, Medical Corps, Family Practice Physician at US Army
July 1996 - June 2003Resident, Tripler Army Medical Center, 1996-1999; Staff Physician 1999-2003
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Founder, CEO at Cirrus Medical Network, Inc.
January 2014 - PresentFounder, CEO of Cirrus Medical Network, Inc. (CirrusMED) - "Your Doctor. Online." - Online Concierge Doctors. Proprietary all-in-one direct care telehealth platform for physicians moving to a virtual practice environment.
DR HIGHLEY'S EDUCATION:
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Tripler Army Medical Center, U.S. Army
1996 – 1999Residency, Family MedicineConcentration: Family MedicineActivities: 3 -year Medical Residency -
Des Moines University-Osteopathic Medical Center
1992 – 1996D.O. -
University of Wisconsin-Madison
1988 – 1992B.S.Concentration: Molecular Biology
DR HIGHLEY'S INTERESTS & ACTIVITIES:
Primary Care Medicine, Health Information Technology, Digital Health, Direct Primary Care, EHR / EMR, Healthcare Optimization, Healthcare Innovation, Aviation, Music, and Tahoe.
Mark Schumacher M.D.
Obstetrics & Gynecology | Menopause & Hormone Therapy
Dr. Mark Schumacher is a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist with decades of experience caring for women throughout Northern Nevada. He earned his medical degree from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine and completed his residency training at the United States Naval Medical Center.
At Preferred Family Medicine, Dr. Schumacher focuses on women’s health, with particular expertise in perimenopause, menopause, and hormone therapy. His approach emphasizes careful evaluation, evidence-based treatment, and individualized care rather than a one-size-fits-all approach to hormonal health.
Through PFM’s telehealth Menopause & Hormone Therapy Program, Dr. Schumacher provides accessible, ongoing specialty care to women throughout Nevada and California, helping patients navigate hormonal changes with clarity, confidence, and a treatment plan tailored to their individual needs.
Ava Estorga PA-C
Ava Estorga, PA-C, brings a diverse clinical background and a thoughtful, patient-centered approach to medicine. Her undergraduate studies included molecular biology, psychology, and nutrition, providing a broad foundation for her interest in whole-person care.
Ava began her career as a physician assistant in emergency medicine, where she developed strong procedural skills and experience managing a wide range of medical concerns. Her background also includes working alongside physicians in general surgery, gynecology, and family medicine, giving her a particular interest in women’s health and a well-rounded approach to patient care. She values building meaningful relationships with patients and takes pride in being an attentive listener.
Originally from Napa Valley, Ava has called Nevada home since 2013. She and her husband have two young sons, ages six and nearly one. Outside of medicine, she enjoys hiking, birding, traveling, and preparing healthy meals.
Our Team
Meghann
Nursing Student
Meghann is from our home state of Nevada. She has had many adventures in her journey as a MA. From assisting our front-line firefighters and police officers all along the west coast and into Colorado to serving the community of Carson City, she has done it all. She comes from a big family and family always comes first. She and her dog Oliver, a frequent visitor of PFM, enjoy long walks in the mountains. Give Meghann a good quality cup of coffee and you've made a pal for life.
Jennifer Peterson O.D.
Optometrist
Dr. Peterson has been providing comprehensive eye care for residents of Northern Nevada since 2003. She has worked side-by-side with ophthalmologists in both military and civilian/private practice settings. She brings her keen optometry skills (and sense of humor) to the practice for the benefit of our members.
Dr. Peterson is now enrolling patients into her concierge eye care practice, Legacy Vision. To learn more and sign up, go to LegacyVisionNV.com.
Julia
Lead Medical Assistant
Julia is an experienced medical assistant from Reno. She takes pride in interacting with patients and giving good service. She states "It is personally very important to me that the patient feels comfortable with the care they are receiving, as it pertains to my role within the clinic."
Megan C.
Medical Assistant
Maria
Medical Assistant
Jocelyn
Front Office
"I’m Jocelyn, a dedicated healthcare professional with 2 years of experience in the medical field. I take pride in providing compassionate care and continually growing in both skill and confidence. Outside of work, I cherish time with my wife and daughter, whether we’re traveling, exploring, or creating new memories together. Gratitude, passion, and purpose guide both my career and my family life."
Amy
Front Office
"Hi, I'm Amy!
I'm originally from Reno, Nevada, and I've been working in the medical field for nine years. As one of the receptionists here, I truly enjoy welcoming patients and helping make their visits as smooth and comfortable as possible. Outside of work, I love spending time with my dog, enjoying soccer, and making memories with my family."
Ashleigh
Clinical Research Coordinator
Clinical Research Coordinator | Reno Clinical Trials
Ashleigh Roberson serves as Clinical Research Coordinator for Reno Clinical Trials, the clinical research division of Preferred Family Medicine. She brings experience in academic clinical research, including work at Stanford University School of Medicine, and is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
At Reno Clinical Trials, Ashleigh coordinates the day-to-day operations of clinical studies and works closely with investigators, research participants, sponsors, and clinical research organizations. Her responsibilities span study start-up and regulatory activities, participant recruitment and coordination, data and documentation management, and ensuring studies are conducted according to established research protocols and Good Clinical Practice standards.
Ashleigh plays a central role in building PFM’s clinical research program and expanding opportunities for patients in Northern Nevada to participate in high-quality clinical trials.
"Dr. Bearfield is a excellent doctor. He listens to you and takes the time to explain everything so when you leave, you feel like you are his only patient and he is going to do everything he can to solve your medical problem. He cares about you as a patient and a person. He is a great dianigostic doctor. There are not enough words to tell you what a great doctor he is.." (Google review)
Louise B.
A Better Primary Care Experience
Concierge Direct Primary Care Serving Northern Nevada
hello@nvpfm.com
Office Hours:
Mon-Fri 9AM -5PM