Frequently Asked Questions
We've compiled a list of common questions about our practice. If you have any other questions, feel free to call or email us!
Frequently asked questions
A: No. The type of healthcare I provide (comprehensive wellness) would not work with insurance. However, you are welcome to check with your HSA or FSA administrator to see if they would pay for or provide reimbursement for subscription membership or visits with my clinic.
A: No, a lifestyle medicine physician does not replace your primary care physician (PCP). Instead, they complement the care provided by your PCP. Lifestyle medicine focuses on using evidence-based lifestyle interventions—such as nutrition, physical activity, stress management, sleep improvement, and avoidance of risky behaviors—to prevent, manage, and often reverse chronic diseases. Your PCP, on the other hand, provides comprehensive general medical care, including diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of conditions, routine check-ups, acute care, and coordination of overall health care.
Many patients benefit from the combined expertise of both a PCP and a lifestyle medicine physician. The PCP ensures continuity of care and addresses acute and general health issues, while the lifestyle medicine physician provides specialized guidance on sustainable lifestyle changes to improve long-term health outcomes.
A: No, you do not need a referral to see me as I do not take insurance and instead have several payment plans which allow me to spend more time with you and your health plan then I would be able to if I were restricted by time and care restraints imposed by insurance plans.
A: To prepare for your appointment, gather information about your medical history, current medications, dietary habits, physical activity levels, sleep patterns, and any recent lab results. This information will help the physician create an effective treatment plan.
A: During your first visit, the physician will conduct a comprehensive assessment of your health, including a review of your medical history, lifestyle habits, and current health concerns. This helps in creating a personalized lifestyle and longevity plan tailored to your needs and goals.
A: The frequency of visits depends on your individual health needs and treatment plan. I offer several membership plans to meet your personalized needs. Generally, after your initial visit regular check-ins every 3 months, as offered in my base membership plan, is sufficient. But for more intensive plans there are advanced memberships to meet your needs and goals.
Remember between visits you always have access to me through the patient portal to check-in and answer your questions about you personalized lifestyle or longevity plan.
A: Depending on your specific health needs, you may be encouraged to adopt a whole-food, plant-based diet, increase physical activity, improve sleep hygiene, manage stress effectively, and avoid harmful substances like tobacco and excessive alcohol.
A: The time it takes to see results varies depending on your starting point and the specific changes you make. Some people notice improvements in a few weeks, while others may take several months. Consistency and commitment to the recommended lifestyle changes are key to achieving lasting results.
A: Yes, the goal of lifestyle medicine is to promote sustainable, long-term changes that can be maintained throughout your life. Your physician will work with you to develop practical and realistic strategies that fit your lifestyle and preferences.