Doctors spending time with Patients

One of the main complaints I hear from conventional medical patients is that they “feel like a number.” This isn’t surprising, as the traditional healthcare system values procedure codes, with the goal of moving as many patients numbers through the system as possible.

So much is lost with this urgent-care type of approach. Physicians apply prescribed treatments such as drugs or surgery to treat immediate problems or symptoms – a practice sometimes referred to as “Band-Aid Healthcare.” Proactive or preventative measures are completely overlooked.

Functional Medicine practitioners dig deeper. Forming a deeper doctor-patient relationship is a priority, and the advantages are clear. By taking the time to get to know each of my patients, I become a therapeutic partner in their personalized healthcare. In most cases, this involves proactive and predictive support so individuals can reach their optimal expression of health and vitality. It’s just not possible to squeeze this level of care into a 7-minute office visit.

The Future of Medicine: Proactive, Predictive, & Personalized

The acute-care models of conventional medicine are ineffective and outdated. In most cases, the system lacks the proper tools and methodology for treating and preventing complex, chronic diseases – many of which (cancer, diabetes, heart disease) continue to rise.

I believe that Functional Medicine is the future of medicine – available now. By shifting the symptom-centered focus to a more patient-centered approach, Functional Medicine addresses the whole person, not just a set of symptoms. We view the body as one integrated system instead of dividing it into independent organs, each with their own medical specialty.

Most conventional medical doctors are not adequately trained to identify the underlying causes of chronic disease to prevent and provide treatment through strategies like nutrition, diet, and exercise. The current system doesn’t allow them to consider lifestyle-driven factors such as emotional stress, dietary choices, exercise frequency, and sleep quality and quantity.

Functional medicine doctors are uniquely trained to understand the origins of illnesses, which can involve a patient’s history, unique genetic makeup, and lifestyle. By spending time with my patients and learning their stories and histories, I can tailor treatments to address their specific needs. This may include a therapeutic diet, a detoxification program, or practicing stress-management techniques.

Reach Your Full Potential

Building a meaningful relationship with your doctor is the key to becoming the healthiest version of yourself. I work with my patients every day to slow aging, balance hormones, decrease inflammation, and optimize cellular health, brain power, and gut function. My patients leave our time together feeling empowered and knowledgeable about their health and wellbeing.

I would be honored to hear your story and partner with you on your path to achieving long-term health and vitality. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation so we can get to know one another and begin our work together.