Frequently Asked Questions

Will by blood work be covered by insurance?
Many standard labs can be ordered through your insurance if you choose. You are still responsible the deductible/coinsurance/co-pay. However, advanced functional medicine testing may not be covered, depending on your plan and the specific tests ordered. But that doesn’t mean that it won’t benefit you in some capacity. Your insurance carrier should send you an Explanation of Benefits that details the services that were either paid or denied.

 

Do I need to be fasting for blood work?
Initial blood work is performed “fasting”, which means nothing to eat or drink except water or black coffee 8 hours before your visit. Please remember no supplements, vitamins, hormones or thyroid medications the morning of your initial appointment.

 

Do you use other lab tests?
We utilize a variety of testing to determine the root cause of a person’s health issues. Recommended testing will depend on your individual situation. Some labs that involve stool, urine or saliva samples are done by you in your home.  Examples of other testing services we use:

• GI Map Stool Study

• DUTCH Testing (hormones)

• ZRT Cortisol and Neurotransmitter Panel

• H. Pylori and SIBO Breath Tests

• IgG Food Sensitivity Panel

• iGenex Lyme/Tick borne disease testing (urine and blood)

• Mycotoxin (mold) testing

 

Can I use my HSA or FSA account?
You may use your HSA or FSA to pay for your consultations, lab fees, and supplements as allowed by your accounts.

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Can I use my insurance for functional medicine visits?
No. Functional medicine visits are self-pay only and are not billed to insurance. This model allows for longer, more comprehensive visits and personalized care that insurance-based systems do not cover.

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Why is functional medicine considered self-pay?
Functional medicine requires extended visits, a deep dive into your history, and a personalized plan tailored to your unique needs. Insurance-based models are designed for short, acute-care visits and are not structured to cover this level of care.

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Functional Medicine vs. Conventional Medicine

Conventional medicine focuses on symptoms and treating those symptoms, most often with pharmaceuticals or surgery. By utilizing a symptoms-based approach and treatment plan, patients often become dependent or reliant on drugs as their symptoms return if/when the drug is discontinued. 

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Functional medicine, in contrast, takes a root-cause approach to disease management. This approach restores healthy function as the underlying cause is addressed, the body as a whole is taken into consideration, and balance is restored.

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