Question 1

What is functional medicine?

Accepted Answer

Functional medicine is a patient-centered, science-based approach that identifies and addresses the root causes of disease. Rather than simply treating symptoms, functional medicine practitioners investigate the complex interactions between genetics, environment, and lifestyle that can lead to illness. This approach recognizes that each patient is biochemically unique and requires personalized treatment strategies.

Question 2

How is functional medicine different from conventional medicine?

Accepted Answer

Conventional medicine typically focuses on diagnosing disease and prescribing medications to manage symptoms. Functional medicine takes a different approach by investigating why disease developed in the first place and addressing those underlying causes. While conventional medicine asks 'What disease does this person have?' functional medicine asks 'Why does this person have this disease?' This shift in perspective leads to more comprehensive, personalized treatment strategies that aim for lasting health improvements rather than symptom suppression.

Question 3

Is functional medicine evidence-based?

Accepted Answer

Yes, functional medicine is firmly grounded in scientific research. Functional medicine practitioners use advanced diagnostic testing, stay current with the latest peer-reviewed research, and apply evidence-based interventions. The difference is that functional medicine integrates a broader range of scientific disciplines—including nutrition science, environmental medicine, genetics, and systems biology—to create comprehensive treatment approaches.

Question 4

What happens during the initial consultation?

Accepted Answer

Your initial consultation with Dr. Stavy is a comprehensive 90-120 minute appointment. During this time, Dr. Stavy will review your complete health history, current symptoms, lifestyle factors, diet, stress levels, sleep patterns, and environmental exposures. She'll examine all body systems and their interconnections to identify patterns that may reveal root causes. Based on this assessment, she may recommend specialized functional medicine testing to uncover hidden imbalances.

Question 5

What types of testing might be recommended?

Accepted Answer

Testing is personalized based on your specific health concerns. Common functional medicine tests include comprehensive metabolic panels, hormone testing (thyroid, adrenal, sex hormones), gut microbiome analysis, food sensitivity testing, nutrient deficiency screening, heavy metal testing, organic acids testing, and genetic testing. Dr. Stavy only recommends tests that will provide actionable information for your treatment plan.

Question 6

How long does it take to see results?

Accepted Answer

The timeline for improvement varies depending on your condition, how long you've had symptoms, and your adherence to the treatment protocol. Some patients notice improvements within weeks, while complex chronic conditions may require several months of consistent treatment. Functional medicine focuses on addressing root causes, which takes time but leads to lasting improvements rather than temporary symptom relief. Dr. Stavy will discuss realistic timelines during your consultation.

Question 7

Will I need to take supplements?

Accepted Answer

Therapeutic supplementation is often part of functional medicine treatment, but it's always personalized based on your specific deficiencies and imbalances identified through testing. Supplements are used strategically to correct deficiencies, support healing, and restore optimal function. Dr. Stavy prescribes pharmaceutical-grade supplements and adjusts protocols as your health improves. The goal is to eventually minimize supplementation as your body regains its natural balance.

Question 8

What conditions does Dr. Stavy treat?

Accepted Answer

Dr. Stavy specializes in complex chronic conditions including autoimmune diseases, digestive disorders, hormonal imbalances, chronic fatigue, metabolic syndrome, thyroid dysfunction, and chronic inflammation. She also provides preventive care for patients wanting to optimize their health and prevent disease. If you're unsure whether functional medicine can help your specific condition, we encourage you to book a consultation to discuss your situation.

Question 9

Can functional medicine help with autoimmune diseases?

Accepted Answer

Yes, functional medicine has shown significant success in managing autoimmune conditions. By identifying and addressing triggers such as gut dysbiosis, food sensitivities, chronic infections, environmental toxins, and stress, functional medicine can help reduce autoimmune activity and symptoms. While autoimmune diseases are typically considered incurable in conventional medicine, many patients experience dramatic improvements and even remission through functional medicine protocols.

Question 10

Do I need to stop my current medications?

Accepted Answer

No, you should never stop prescribed medications without consulting your prescribing physician. Dr. Stavy works collaboratively with your other healthcare providers. As your health improves through functional medicine treatment, you and your prescribing doctor may decide to adjust or reduce medications, but this is always done safely and gradually under medical supervision.

Question 11

Can functional medicine help with weight loss?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but functional medicine approaches weight management differently than conventional dieting. Rather than focusing solely on calories, functional medicine investigates the metabolic, hormonal, and inflammatory factors affecting your weight. By addressing insulin resistance, thyroid function, adrenal health, gut health, and inflammation, functional medicine helps restore your body's natural ability to maintain a healthy weight. This approach leads to sustainable results rather than temporary weight loss followed by regain.

Question 12

How much does functional medicine cost?

Accepted Answer

Functional medicine consultations and treatment plans are personalized, so costs vary based on your specific needs. Initial consultations, follow-up appointments, and recommended testing each have associated costs. During your initial consultation, Dr. Stavy will discuss the recommended testing and treatment approach along with associated costs, allowing you to make informed decisions about your care. Many patients find that investing in functional medicine saves money long-term by addressing root causes rather than managing symptoms indefinitely.

Question 13

Does insurance cover functional medicine?

Accepted Answer

Insurance coverage for functional medicine varies by provider and plan. Some services may be covered while others may not. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to inquire about coverage for functional medicine consultations and testing. Our team can provide documentation to submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement.

Question 14

How often will I need follow-up appointments?

Accepted Answer

Follow-up frequency is personalized based on your condition and response to treatment. Initially, most patients see Dr. Stavy monthly to monitor progress and adjust protocols. As health improves, appointments typically become less frequent—every 6-8 weeks, then quarterly. Some patients eventually transition to annual wellness visits once they've achieved their health goals and established sustainable healthy habits.

Question 15

Can I do functional medicine remotely?

Accepted Answer

Many aspects of functional medicine can be conducted remotely through telemedicine consultations. Dr. Stavy can review your health history, discuss test results, and create treatment plans via video consultation. However, some initial assessments and certain types of testing may require in-person visits. Contact our office to discuss whether remote consultations are appropriate for your situation.

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