Why Functional Medicine?

At Patients Medical the practice  takes into account the unique needs of each patient. It recognizes that each person is different, and that their healthcare should be tailored to their individual needs and circumstances. This approach is more effective than a one-size-fits-all approach to healthcare.

Our goal is to provide you with long-term medical relief.

There are several different schools of medicine that are popular to help give patients health, hope and healing.

Discussed below are some of the medical  options that exist in medicine today.

Alternative medicine

Alternative medicine practices may include herbal remedies, acupuncture, homeopathy, and massage therapy, among others. It is important to note that the effectiveness of many alternative medicine practices has not been scientifically proven, and some may even be harmful. It is always recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using any alternative medicine products or practices.

Complementary Medicine

Complementary medicine refers to the use of non-conventional medical practices in conjunction with conventional medicine. This can include practices such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and meditation, which are used to complement conventional medical treatments. The goal of complementary medicine is to improve the overall well-being of the patient and enhance the effectiveness of conventional treatments. It is important to note that not all complementary medicine practices have been scientifically proven to be effective and it is recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before incorporating them into your treatment plan.

Conventional Medicine

Conventional medicine, also known as Western medicine, is the type of medicine that is widely accepted and practiced by healthcare professionals in the United States and other Western countries. It is based on scientific evidence and follows a biomedical model, which focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of disease using methods such as surgery, medication, and radiation therapy. Conventional medicine is typically provided by licensed healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, and other specialists and is typically covered by insurance. It is important to note that conventional medicine is constantly evolving, and new treatments and technologies are being developed and adopted.

Integrative medicine

Integrative medicine is a healthcare approach that combines traditional Western medicine with complementary and alternative therapies. This can include things like acupuncture, massage therapy, herbal medicine, and mindfulness practices. The goal of integrative medicine is to provide personalized care and to treat the whole person, rather than just their symptoms. It is also often used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical treatments.

Functional medicine

Functional medicine is a systems biology-based approach to healthcare that focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying causes of chronic disease. It uses a patient-centered approach that looks at the whole person, including their lifestyle, environment, and genetic factors that may contribute to their condition. The goal of functional medicine is to restore optimal function to the body, rather than just treating symptoms. This is achieved through a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, supplements, and targeted medical treatments. Some practitioners of functional medicine may also use alternative therapies such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and chiropractic care.

FAQ's

WHY DO WE NEED FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE?

There are several reasons why functional medicine is needed in healthcare today. One main reason is that chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders, are becoming increasingly prevalent and conventional medicine is not always effective in treating these conditions. Functional medicine addresses the root causes of these diseases, rather than just treating symptoms, which can lead to better long-term outcomes for patients.

Another reason functional medicine is needed is that it takes into account the unique needs of each patient. It recognizes that each person is different, and that their healthcare should be tailored to their individual needs and circumstances. This approach is more effective than a one-size-fits-all approach to healthcare.

Additionally, functional medicine also emphasizes the importance of preventative care. By identifying and addressing risk factors for chronic diseases early on, functional medicine can help prevent the development of these conditions in the first place.

Lastly, Functional Medicine practitioners consider the web of interactions between genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that can influence long-term health and complex chronic diseases. This holistic approach allows practitioners to understand the underlying causes of a patient’s conditions and to create personalized treatment plans that address the root causes of their symptoms.

HOW IS FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE DIFFERENT?

Functional medicine is different from conventional medicine in several ways.

First, it takes a more integrated approach to healthcare. It looks at the whole person, including their physical, emotional, and environmental factors that may be contributing to their condition, rather than just treating their symptoms.

Second, functional medicine uses a systems biology approach to understanding the underlying causes of chronic diseases. This means that it considers the complex interactions between different systems in the body, such as the gut, hormones, and immune system, in order to identify the root causes of a patient's condition.

Third, functional medicine emphasizes the importance of preventative care. It aims to identify and address risk factors for chronic diseases early on, to prevent the development of these conditions.

Fourth, functional medicine uses a patient-centered approach that focuses on the unique needs of each individual. This means that treatment plans are tailored to the specific needs and circumstances of each patient.

Finally, functional medicine incorporates a wide range of therapies, including both conventional and alternative therapies, in order to create a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the root causes of a patient's condition.

Comparison of Alternative medicine, Complementary Medicine, Functional medicine, and Integrative medicine. Which is best?

Alternative medicine, complementary medicine, functional medicine, and integrative medicine are all different approaches to healthcare that have their own unique characteristics.

Alternative medicine is used in place of conventional medical treatments. This can include things like herbal medicine, acupuncture, and homeopathy.

Complementary medicine is used alongside conventional medical treatments. This can include things like massage therapy, yoga, and meditation.

Functional medicine is a systems biology-based approach that looks at the underlying causes of chronic disease. It uses a patient-centered approach that focuses on restoring optimal function to the body.

Integrative medicine combines typical Western medicine with alternative therapies. The goal is to provide personalized care and to treat the whole person, rather than just their symptoms.

It's hard to say which one of these is the "best" approach, as it depends on the individual patient and their specific needs. Some patients may benefit more from conventional treatments, while others may benefit more from alternative or complementary therapies. Integrative medicine is a good approach as it combines the best of both worlds, conventional and alternative therapies. In this way, the patient can have a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses both their physical and emotional well-being. However, it's important to note that not all alternative therapies are safe or effective, so it's important to consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before trying any new treatment.

HOW IS FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE DIFFERENT FROM CONVENTIONAL MEDICINE?

Functional medicine is different from conventional medicine in several ways:

  1. It takes a more integrated approach: Functional medicine looks at the whole person, including their physical, emotional, and environmental factors that may be contributing to their condition. It addresses the underlying causes of chronic diseases, rather than just treating symptoms.
  2. It uses a systems biology approach: Functional medicine considers the complex interactions between different systems in the body, such as the gut, hormones, and immune system, in order to identify the root causes of a patient's condition.
  3. It emphasizes preventative care: Functional medicine aims to identify and address risk factors for chronic diseases early on, in order to prevent the development of these conditions.
  4. It is patient-centered: Functional medicine uses a patient-centered approach that focuses on the unique needs of each individual. Treatment plans are tailored to the specific needs and circumstances of each patient.
  5. It incorporates a wide range of therapies: Functional medicine incorporates a wide range of therapies, including both conventional and alternative therapies, in order to create a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the root causes of a patient's condition.

Does functional medicine work?

Functional medicine has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of chronic conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, autoimmune disorders, and mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. Studies have also shown that functional medicine can improve quality of life, reduce the need for medications, and decrease healthcare costs.

However, it's important to note that functional medicine is still a relatively new approach and more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness.

Additionally, it's important to note that functional medicine works best when used in conjunction with conventional medicine, as it can help to address the underlying causes of chronic diseases and complement traditional treatments.

It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before trying any new treatment, and any treatment should be customized according to your personal situation and needs.

What is a functional medicine doctor?

A functional medicine doctor is a healthcare practitioner who has been trained in the functional medicine approach to healthcare. This approach focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying causes of chronic diseases, rather than just treating symptoms.

Functional medicine doctors typically have a background in conventional medicine, such as being a medical doctor (MD) or doctor of osteopathy (DO), and have also completed additional training in functional medicine. They may have a certification from the Institute for Functional Medicine or have completed a functional medicine fellowship program.

Functional medicine doctors use a patient-centered approach and work closely with their patients to understand their unique needs and circumstances. They may use a wide range of therapies, including both conventional and alternative therapies, in order to create a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the root causes of a patient's condition.

Functional Medicine practitioners often work in collaboration with other healthcare providers, such as primary care physicians, specialists, and complementary and alternative medicine practitioners, to provide a holistic and coordinated approach to care.

How much does functional medicine cost?

The cost of functional medicine can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the location of the practitioner, the type of treatment or therapy being used, and the individual's insurance coverage.

Typically, functional medicine practitioners charge a higher fee than conventional medical practitioners for an initial consultation and follow-up appointments because of the extensive time and personalized approach that is required.

At our practice it is typically $500 for an initial one hour visit and around $300 for follow-up visits.

If you  have a PPO health plan, your insurance may pay for some or all of your visit costs.  In addition, your health insurance whether HMO< PPO or Medicare may pay for some of the testing.  Please contact our office prior to your visit for us to help you check with your insurance about coverage and reimbursement for you.

Additionally, functional medicine practitioners may recommend a variety of functional medicine tests, such as genetic testing, hormone testing, or gut microbiome testing, which can also add to the cost of care.

However, it's important to note that functional medicine may provide long-term benefits in terms of improved health and reduced need for medications, which can offset the cost in the long run.

The question you have to ask yourself is if the benefit of better long term health versus the cost is important to you.

Some insurance companies do cover functional medicine, but coverage varies widely. It's best to check with your insurance company to see what they cover.

Ultimately, the cost of functional medicine will depend on your specific needs and circumstances, and it is important to consult with a functional medicine practitioner to understand the cost of care.

Functional medicine doctor near me

 

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Our job at Patients Medical is to connect the dots between a patient's medical history, symptoms, and their underlying causes. Patients Medical is a superb place for people to secure integrative and holistic health care from providers who give personalized care, partner with the patient to focus on the root cause of their illness, support their recovery, and help them maintain good health.


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Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B
New York, NY 10128

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