Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Functional Medicine different?

Functional medicine is different because it is individualized based on your specific biochemical make-up.  Functional medicine digs deeper than “normal” labs from your PCP. The functional approach also understands that it takes more than one factor to influence your health. It is not just genes, lifestyle, food, exercise, or bad luck that cause disease. Disease is multifactorial, meaning treatment should be as well. In addition, disease doesn’t happen overnight; labs don’t generally go from normal to abnormal suddenly. Disease and illness happen on a continuum, and it is a process to move from healthy to illness.  Through functional wellness, we hope to identify ways to improve your health no matter where you’re at in life.

Is Functional Medicine backed by science? 

The Functional Medicine approach has been shown to improve patient outcomes and reduce symptoms experienced by patients.  Did you know that many markers used in traditional medicine currently have been used in functional medicine for many years?  An example of this is calprotectin which is now used by GI specialists to determine risk of inflammatory bowel disease.  There is increasing need for a wellness - based approach to medicine. Even Cleveland Clinic has taken note of the efficacy of Functional Medicine and opened a functional based clinic.  There is a lot of evidence of the benefits of a functional approach, but there are even more patient testimonials!

Are Functional Medicine providers even real doctors? 

I am certified as a Nurse Practitioner in the State of Michigan and have received advanced training in Functional Medicine.  It is true that there are many different types of wellness practitioners, such as nutrition providers, life coaches, wellness coaches, etc.  Many providers come from different backgrounds with varying levels of education. I am prepared with a Master’s Degree in the Science of Nursing with a deep understanding of anatomy, physiology, disease processes, and wellness.  I am qualified to care for people using both traditional medicine and alternative medicine practices. 

Why won’t my insurance cover Functional Medicine?

It takes time for tests, treatments, and medicines to go through the process of being approved and covered by insurance companies.  Many times, new tests and treatments are not covered by insurance or have a significant copay associated with them for years after they are developed.  Have you ever had insurance say you need this medicine, not that medicine, even though it isn’t what your doctor ordered?  Unfortunately, insurance companies can have a big role in the care provided to patients under the traditional medicine model.  We do not accept insurance so we can keep the focus of our care on the patient, where it belongs.

Why is Functional Medicine so expensive?

Since insurance does not cover services, there are costs that are associated with Functional Medicine. Advanced testing used can be more in depth than traditional labs.  In addition, the treatment plan is individualized and not a cookie cutter design.  Each and every patient gets a thorough history, intake visit, review of appropriate lab testing, review of findings, and treatment plan that is tailored just to their needs. In addition, when you join our program, you get unlimited access to your provider! No more calling the office to wait on hold, talk to multiple different staff members, and wait days to get a response from the provider. During programs you receive concierge care, meaning I am here to support you every step of the way. Lastly, to help reduce the burden of cost, some people can be reimbursed by their FSA or HSA accounts for functional medicine services.

I have more questions, where can I get answers?

Book a 15 minute complimentary clarity call HERE or contact us at team@northstarfh.com