Rising Stars: Meet Farnaz Pirayesh of San Luis Obispo

Today we’d like to introduce you to Farnaz Pirayesh.

Farnaz, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I have always felt that providing medical care is my calling. From a very young age, I was on a clear path toward becoming a physician. But once I entered the world of corporate and insurance-based medicine, I quickly realized the system was not designed to be patient-centered. That disconnect was deeply unfulfilling to my soul. I knew I needed to do something that aligned with both my passion and my moral values. So, I made the decision to open my own practice—one where I could care for patients the way medicine is meant to be practiced. And that is how Monarch Primary Care was born.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I don’t believe in the idea of a completely smooth road. Any time we venture into something new, there’s a steep learning curve—and real growth often comes through facing those challenges. One of the biggest struggles has been staying focused on my vision. When you’re doing something different, it naturally brings a sense of vulnerability, which can invite self-doubt and negative noise. That’s why it’s so important to stay grounded in your purpose and remain committed to your goals.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a board-certified family physician and the founder of a Direct Primary Care practice. What that means is I don’t work for insurance companies or large medical corporations—I work directly for my patients. My patients pay an affordable monthly membership fee and in return, they get direct access to me by phone, text, or in person. Because I keep my patient panel intentionally small, I’m able to truly get to know each of my patients and provide them with personalized, comprehensive care.

This model not only strengthens the doctor-patient relationship, but also leads to better outcomes. My patients visit urgent care and emergency rooms less often, avoid unnecessary hospitalizations, and take fewer days off work—ultimately leading to better health and wellness overall.

What I’m most proud of is staying true to the vision I had from the start. I believed there was a better way to practice medicine—one that honored both the physician and the patient—and I followed that belief despite the doubts and skepticism of others. Having the autonomy to practice ethical, evidence-based medicine without corporate interference is deeply fulfilling, and I believe it makes a real difference in my patients’ lives.

What sets me apart is my commitment to that vision and the courage to pursue it, even when others said it couldn’t be done.

What are your plans for the future?
My plan for the future is to expand my medical practice and continue growing the Direct Primary Care model. I also hope to inspire other physicians to return to the heart of medicine—to provide the kind of care they know is right, without the interference of insurance companies or corporate systems. I truly believe that when physicians are empowered to practice with integrity and intention, it leads to better care, healthier communities, and a more fulfilling career in medicine.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.monarchprimarycare.com
• Instagram: @monarchdpc

Image Credits
Rachel Higgins and Clair Images