About Us
Brian Fretwell
PA-C, MPH
DPCA Athens, Cleveland & Dalton
DPCA Athens, Cleveland & Dalton
Mr. Fretwell also calls Cleveland home. He is a former field and flight Paramedic. He attended University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. His medical education was completed at Nova Southeastern University with a dual degree in PA studies and Masters in Public Health. He has over 27 years experience in Emergency, Family, and Occupational Medicine. As CEO of Direct Primary Care Associates, Mr. Fretwell has created and continues to develop a team of like-minded, forward thinking individuals who share his unique vision for improving access to quality affordable healthcare through innovative solutions for individuals and businesses throughout the region.
Brian enjoys spending quality time with his children. He also spends most fall weekends watching Tennessee football. An avid conservationist and outdoorsman he also spends much time hunting, fishing, surfing, and boating
Brian enjoys spending quality time with his children. He also spends most fall weekends watching Tennessee football. An avid conservationist and outdoorsman he also spends much time hunting, fishing, surfing, and boating
Gerard Mazza
MD
DPCA Athens & Cleveland
DPCA Athens & Cleveland
Dr. Mazza is DPCA’s supervising physician for the Dalton and Cleveland markets. A Cleveland resident and trusted Family, Emergency, Occupational, and Urgent care Physician for 34 years. He has proudly served Southeast Tennessee for his entire career. He graduated from the University of South Florida and completed Family Medicine residency at United Hospital Center in Clarksburg, WV. Dr. Mazza is a distinguished member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society. From his past and current work in all of these settings, he has gained insight into many of the issues surrounding access to affordable primary care. Dr. Mazza leads our clinics in a way that cultivates a sense of community and where patients have time to personally connect with each provider.
Dr. Mazza enjoys fitness and exercising, and is now semi-retired. You will often find him at the various classes at the YMCA. He also loves to fly his plane, travel, and spend time with his family.
Dr. Mazza enjoys fitness and exercising, and is now semi-retired. You will often find him at the various classes at the YMCA. He also loves to fly his plane, travel, and spend time with his family.
Eric Coker
MD
DPCA Cleveland
DPCA Cleveland
Dr. Eric Coker is the Medical Director of Direct Primary Care Associates and the Supervising Physician for the Cleveland, Athens, and Knoxville clinics. He grew up in Wilmore, Kentucky and attended the University of Kentucky studying Chemical Engineering. Upon graduation, Eric worked as a Navy Nuke Instructor for four years. Then, Eric went back to school and attended the University of Kentucky College of Medicine in 2014. Eric completed his residency at the Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune. Eric joined the DPCA team in 2022 and is excited to have the opportunity to get to know his patients and serve the Cleveland community.
In Eric’s free time, he loves spending quality time with his wife and four children. Eric enjoys being outside - whether that is tubing on the lake, hiking mountains, or swimming in the ocean. Eric is a follower of Jesus.
Stacy Flowers
FNP
DPCA Cleveland
DPCA Cleveland
Stacy always dreamed of working in healthcare and her career began as a Registered Nurse working in a variety of settings including Intensive Care step-down unit, Trauma ICU, Hospice, and eventually the Emergency Room . Her commitment to patient care and furthering her education led her to complete a Master’s Degree in Nursing from Southern Adventist University. She is a member of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. As a board certified family nurse practitioner, she gained valuable experience in pediatrics, geriatrics, and men’s health before bringing her talents and skill to Direct Primary Care Associates.
Stacy is a lifelong Cleveland resident. She is happily married to her husband Eric and they have two daughters, Emery and Eden.
Beth Prine
PT, MS, MBA
Beth graduated from the University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center in Memphis and practiced as a physical therapist for over 20 years in outpatient and occupational medicine practices with dual responsibilities in management and clinical roles. She furthered her education by obtaining a MBA from Bryan College to redefine her career in healthcare administration. Combining her love for patient care and passion for improving the patient experience through DPC makes her role as VP and Chief Operating Officer of Direct Primary Care Associates the pinnacle of her career.
Beth enjoys hosting informal get-togethers on the weekends or to make any day an occasion to celebrate. She credits her love of cooking and gardening to the memory of Southern Mom and Aunts. Beth and her husband, Jeff, also enjoy boating and spending time with family and friends on the lake.
Beth enjoys hosting informal get-togethers on the weekends or to make any day an occasion to celebrate. She credits her love of cooking and gardening to the memory of Southern Mom and Aunts. Beth and her husband, Jeff, also enjoy boating and spending time with family and friends on the lake.
Tim Tatum
MA, MBA, LPC-MHSP, NCC
Tim is a Licensed Professional Counselor and he obtained his Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Management in 2016. He has worked in the local mental health arena since 1995. He has diverse experience in the group home, acute detox, inpatient and community-based settings. As a clinician, Tim ascribes to a holistic and collaborative approach to helping people overcome challenges. Holding a firm belief in influencing mental wellness, Tim is an active volunteer with suicide prevention, addiction support efforts, and mental health advocacy at the regional and state policy level.
In his free time, Tim is an avid runner and enjoys the natural resources that Chattanooga and the surrounding area offers. He and his wife Nikki, reside on the river with their dog, Maisy.
In his free time, Tim is an avid runner and enjoys the natural resources that Chattanooga and the surrounding area offers. He and his wife Nikki, reside on the river with their dog, Maisy.
Josh mcgrew
PA-C
DPCA Knoxville
DPCA Knoxville
Josh is a Knoxville native. He earned a bachelor's degree from Tennessee Tech University and an MBA from Auburn to support a career in supply chain management and process engineering. While working in that field he realized that what really drove him was a desire to help the people around him.
During that time he was introduced to the physician assistant career and the opportunity it allows for helping others. This led him to make a decision with the support of his wife to go back to school and change careers. He earned his physician assistant degree from Milligan University and since then has been thrilled to have the opportunity to get to work with his patients in an effort to better understand and improve their health.
Josh grew up camping in and exploring the forests of East Tennessee. He and his wife, Aftin, are mountain bike and whitewater enthusiasts that love to spend their weekends on local trails or rivers.
During that time he was introduced to the physician assistant career and the opportunity it allows for helping others. This led him to make a decision with the support of his wife to go back to school and change careers. He earned his physician assistant degree from Milligan University and since then has been thrilled to have the opportunity to get to work with his patients in an effort to better understand and improve their health.
Josh grew up camping in and exploring the forests of East Tennessee. He and his wife, Aftin, are mountain bike and whitewater enthusiasts that love to spend their weekends on local trails or rivers.
KEVIN CHIN
PA-C
DPCA Athens
DPCA Athens
Robert "Kevin" Chin, RN, PA-C has proudly been serving the Athens community with Direct Primary Care Associates since 2021. He grew up in Omaha, Nebraska, and relocated to Tennessee for his undergraduate degree at Southern College. He has been a Registered Nurse since 1988, working in emergency medicine with certification as C.E.N. (Certified Emergency Nurse). In 1999, he completed Physician Assistant school at the University of North Dakota - Grand Forks, School of Health Sciences. Kevin’s vast experience lends expertise in emergency medicine, urgent care, occupational health, and family medicine.
Kevin’s wife Debbie, also a Registered Nurse, works in neonatal and neonatal intensive care units. They have two sons and a daughter. Their oldest son, Kevin "KJ" Chin is in the USAF. Their middle son, Aaron Chin, is an early-American historian. Lastly, their daughter, Rebecca "Becca" Chin also works in a local medical office.
Kevin’s wife Debbie, also a Registered Nurse, works in neonatal and neonatal intensive care units. They have two sons and a daughter. Their oldest son, Kevin "KJ" Chin is in the USAF. Their middle son, Aaron Chin, is an early-American historian. Lastly, their daughter, Rebecca "Becca" Chin also works in a local medical office.
Kelli Noble
APRN, DNP, FNP-C
DPCA Dalton
DPCA Dalton
Kelli began her career as a Registered Nurse in 1993 after graduating from the University of TN, Knoxville. She has worked in various settings that include Medical Surgical unit, Cardiothoracic Step-Down unit, Trauma ICU, IV therapy, and as a Diabetes Educator. She has also served as adjunct faculty in the nursing programs at Cleveland State and Chattanooga State Community Colleges. While she always loved the challenge of bedside nursing, she wanted to do more which led her to completing a Master’s Degree in Nursing in 2012 and her Doctor of Nursing Practice in 2020, both from Southern Adventist University. Her specialty is in Family Practice and as a nurse practitioner, she has also worked in Cardiology and Gastroenterology. She is a member of the Tennessee Nurses Association, American Nurses Association, American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, and Sigma Theta Tau Rho Iota Chapter. Kelli is a life-long resident of Cleveland, TN, and she is happily married to her husband, Louis. They have two sons, Sam and Garrett. She is dedicated to her patients and believes health care is not just a job but a calling to serve.
Neyland Shaw
Certified Medical Assistant
DPCA Athens
DPCA Athens
Neyland Shaw, CMA, has worked in healthcare for a total of 8 years, obtaining her medical assistant certification through the National Healthcareer Association in 2017. She loves working as a CMA to help care for others. As a part of the DPCA care team, she has really enjoyed getting to know her patients personally and having the time to care for them like family.
In her free time, Neyland enjoys spending time with her husband Damon, and their daughter Skyler, and their families. Together, they enjoy being outdoors enjoying nature: the mountain, the river, and all their hometown of Tellico Plains as to offer. It’s also nice to get away, now and then, and she also enjoys traveling and looking forward to new adventures !
In her free time, Neyland enjoys spending time with her husband Damon, and their daughter Skyler, and their families. Together, they enjoy being outdoors enjoying nature: the mountain, the river, and all their hometown of Tellico Plains as to offer. It’s also nice to get away, now and then, and she also enjoys traveling and looking forward to new adventures !
Crystal Burns
CMA & Occupational Health Coordinator
DPCA Cleveland
DPCA Cleveland
Crystal Burns, CMA, has over 20 years of experience in the medical field. Crystal has been a Certified Medical Assistance since 2001 and has also worked in Occupation Health since 2005. Crystal is BAT, DOT, COHC, and NIOSH Certified. Crystal joined the DPCA Care Team in March 2022 and enjoys building relationships with patients and companies. Crystal expresses how her coworkers at DPCA are like family.
In Crystal’s free time, she enjoys cheering on the Braves, spending time with her children and grandchild, and loves traveling any chance she gets – especially to the beach. Crystal is strong in her faith and attends Lakeview Community Church.
In Crystal’s free time, she enjoys cheering on the Braves, spending time with her children and grandchild, and loves traveling any chance she gets – especially to the beach. Crystal is strong in her faith and attends Lakeview Community Church.
Michelle Ross
Certified Medical Assistant
DPCA Cleveland
DPCA Cleveland
Michelle, CMA, has over 10 years of experience in the medical field, with a focus in primary care. Michelle has been working in Occupational Health since 2017, and is certified in Drug Testing, Hearing & Breathing Tests, and Breath Alcohol Testing.
Michelle joined the DPCA Care Team in March 2022, and since has thoroughly appreciated the family-oriented atmosphere that DPCA offers. Michelle focuses on taking care of the patients and making sure they are both happy and healthy.
Michelle calls Bradley County home, but previously resided in Nashville. In her free time, she likes spending time outside, whether that is camping, swimming, or attending activities in the community. Michelle enjoys spending time with her talented daughter who plays the piano.
Michelle calls Bradley County home, but previously resided in Nashville. In her free time, she likes spending time outside, whether that is camping, swimming, or attending activities in the community. Michelle enjoys spending time with her talented daughter who plays the piano.
Ali Lewis
CCMA
DPCA Knoxville
DPCA Knoxville
Meet Ali, a dedicated and certified medical assistant with eight years of invaluable experience. Ali's passion for healthcare led her to pursue an Associate's in Applied Science, graduating in May 2023. She finds immense joy in helping patients and believes in the rewards of making a difference in their lives. Ali's aspirations reach even higher, as she dreams of becoming a physician assistant in the future.
Outside of her medical career, Ali is a talented acrylic painter who finds solace and creativity in her art. She also shares memorable experiences traveling to sports events with her father and cherishes quality time with her beloved fur babies. Ali's commitment to both her professional and personal pursuits makes her an exceptional individual with a bright future ahead.
Outside of her medical career, Ali is a talented acrylic painter who finds solace and creativity in her art. She also shares memorable experiences traveling to sports events with her father and cherishes quality time with her beloved fur babies. Ali's commitment to both her professional and personal pursuits makes her an exceptional individual with a bright future ahead.
mary steels
PRN
We are pleased to welcome Mary back to DPCA working on a PRN basis for all of our clinics.
Jamie Rogers
Account Manager
Jamie is a 2022 graduate of Lee University earning his bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration. Originally from Atlanta, he chose Lee University because of his close family ties to Cleveland. Jamie has always spent a lot of time here visiting his father and grandfather.
Since learning about Direct Primary Care Associates in 2021, Jamie’s goal was to work with us because of his passion to find a way to change how healthcare is accessed and paid for in the United States. This aligns perfectly with the mission and vision of DPCA. Jamie joined the team in January of 2023 and is now focused on sales and marketing to new clients because people deserve great care at an affordable price.
In his free time, Jamie likes to spend time with his dog, Erik Church, at the park or on a run. He also spends his summers wakeboarding, surfing, and boating on Parksville Lake with his family.
Since learning about Direct Primary Care Associates in 2021, Jamie’s goal was to work with us because of his passion to find a way to change how healthcare is accessed and paid for in the United States. This aligns perfectly with the mission and vision of DPCA. Jamie joined the team in January of 2023 and is now focused on sales and marketing to new clients because people deserve great care at an affordable price.
In his free time, Jamie likes to spend time with his dog, Erik Church, at the park or on a run. He also spends his summers wakeboarding, surfing, and boating on Parksville Lake with his family.
Yessica J Osegueda
Certified Clinical Medical Assistant
DPCA Dalton
DPCA Dalton
Yessica J. Osegueda, CCMA/CNA, joined our esteemed Dalton office in December 2023, bringing with her an impressive two decades of expertise as a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant, Certified Nursing Assistant, and Spanish Interpreter. Her professional journey commenced with the attainment of her CNA certification in October 2004, followed by her CCMA certification in November 2006.
Yessica's proficiency extends across various medical domains, including Family Practice, OBGYN, and ENT, making her an invaluable asset to our Dalton practice. Her commitment to delivering high-quality healthcare and addressing patients' medical concerns reflects her dedication to ensuring individuals are well-informed and empowered to make optimal health decisions.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Yessica shares a fulfilling family life with her husband, Saul, and their two delightful children, Julian and Soraya. Their shared moments involve enjoying movies, engaging in playtime, and creating culinary delights together. During her precious moments of leisure, Yessica finds solace in reading and exploring new cooking ideas, adding a personal touch to her multifaceted and enriching lifestyle.
Cathy Thompson Peterson
Controller
Cathy is a native of Cleveland, Tennessee, and has over 20 years of experience in the financial and business management field. Cathy began her work with Direct Primary Care Associates shortly after they opened as a consultant through her company, Fiscal Solutions. She officially transitioned to a member of the team as Controller in 2021.
Cathy assists with “all things financial” and helps keep things running smoothly behind the scenes. “It is a privilege to be a part of a team of individuals whom I greatly admire and who are dedicated to providing the best care for their patients.”
Cathy loves spending time with her family and friends. In her spare time, Cathy enjoys kayaking, hiking, and dancing.
Cathy assists with “all things financial” and helps keep things running smoothly behind the scenes. “It is a privilege to be a part of a team of individuals whom I greatly admire and who are dedicated to providing the best care for their patients.”
Cathy loves spending time with her family and friends. In her spare time, Cathy enjoys kayaking, hiking, and dancing.
Our Commitment
