Healthcare experiences can vary greatly, often shaping how patients feel about the system as a whole. These challenges were recognized by the leaders at Ascentist Healthcare, motivated by a commitment to improving access and creating a more patient-centered experience.
Dr. Doug Cowan, President and CEO of Ascentist, established the private healthcare system in response to the access gaps he observed throughout his career. A Kansas City native and University of Kansas graduate, Dr. Cowan’s experience in both private practice and medical missions shaped a clear vision of what high-quality healthcare should look like – equitable and timely access for patients.
"Our commitment is to deliver exceptional care," he said. "From the moment patients walk through our doors, they experience something different - the efficiency and expertise that gets them to a much better place, faster. Our organization is designed to diagnose and resolve patient problems quickly and effectively," Dr. Cowan said.
“As you look at a lot of other systems or practices, there are really long waits. Our expectation is that if there is any urgency to the scenario, we find a way to get them in,” Dr. Spencer Eagan said. “I think being patient forward is what defines our organization. We try to do what is best for the patient.”
Dr. Eagan is an executive partner and plastic surgeon at Ascentist Healthcare, bringing experience in building and leading healthcare programs. A Lawrence, Kansas native and fellow Jayhawk, he first crossed paths with Dr. Cowan on the soccer field. That early connection later evolved into a partnership defined by their shared vision for patient-centered care and a mutual drive to improve the healthcare experience.
“The combination of our backgrounds makes us a lot stronger and more nimble,” Dr. Eagan said. “We try to create an environment that doesn't feel medical, and I think a lot of it is the caring nature of our staff and providers. I think one of the big reasons why we're here today is the culture Doug set from top to bottom.”
"We always knew we'd work together because we share the same core values - a deep commitment to our patients, our staff, and doing what's right. It was a natural partnership from the start," Dr. Cowan said.
Dr. Cowan and Dr. Eagan have seen Ascentist Healthcare grow into one of Kansas City’s most trusted and widely recognized healthcare organizations. With over 20 specialties and 18 locations throughout the metro area, it continues to expand at a rapid pace. While skill and talent are essential, the physicians emphasize that compassion and the collective strength of the team ultimately shape how they build their organization.
"We recruit exceptionally talented physicians - not only for their clinical expertise, but for their character. We seek kind, compassionate people who genuinely care about their patients and colleagues. Our culture naturally attracts and nurtures the kind of outstanding professionals who want to be part of what we're building," Dr. Cowan said.
“That is one of the big things that separates us, but that's not just due to us. It's due to everyone that's a part of the organization,” Dr. Eagan said. “It's the administrative leaders, the people that greet people when they come in, the nurses that follow up on tests and communicate the good news, and sometimes, the bad news.”
The breadth of expertise at Ascentist enables providers to collaborate effectively across specialties. Anchored by trust and camaraderie, inside and outside the clinic, the organization’s culture strives to deliver the best possible care to patients.
"We have physicians who've been practicing their specialties for 30 years, yet they're completely reimagining how they approach certain problems," Dr. Cowan said. "Take chronic cough, for example - we're treating it in a truly unique way. We bring together lung specialists, GI specialists, and ENT specialists, all working in the same space. We're identifying and resolving conditions that patients have endured for 20 years or more. The level of collaboration, communication, and trust among our providers has been extraordinary."
Their leadership ensures patients are empowered to express their needs openly, ask questions freely, and feel secure in their expectations. While reaching this level of care has taken significant effort and investment, Dr. Cowan and Dr. Eagan remain driven—not to chase greater success, but to better serve the people they are privileged to call their patients.
“Today, I saw a patient who is two years out from breast cancer. I often tell my patients that reaching this milestone is when you truly feel like yourself again. Seeing her thriving made my day. This is why we do what we do—for happy patients and to solve the
challenges they face.” Dr. Eagan said.
"Our leaders and team members alike are driven by something bigger than individual recognition," Dr. Cowan said. "It's about treating people the way you want to be treated, constantly elevating our standards, and embracing change to create meaningful improvements. Ultimately, what makes Ascentist special is the genuine care and commitment we show to the people we lead and serve."
Learn more about Ascentist Healthcare and the specialties they offer: ascentist.com/