Functional Medicine appointments are designed to help you:
- Optimize your health and physical performance
- Recover from or prevent a complex chronic illness
- Learn skills that promote quality of life as you go through different life stages
Functional Medicine is a holistic systems-biology approach to identifying and addressing the underlying causes of disease and injury. It addresses the whole person, rather than an isolated set of symptoms with the aim of reversing/preventing complex chronic disease and optimizing health. By looking at the interactions among environmental, lifestyle, and genetic factors that can influence long-term health, performance, and complex, chronic disease, the Functional Medicine practitioner works to support a dynamic balance among the physiological and biochemical processes within an individual. Through a detailed understanding of a patient’s history and their fundamental contributing factors, the Functional Medicine practitioner works to create a personalized plan that allows an individual to achieve their own unique expression of health and vitality.
An initial Functional Medicine appointment is 60 minutes in length with approximately 60 minutes of face to face time with the doctor. Dr. Leslie will do a comprehensive review of your medical history and lifestyle habits. She will also conduct a thorough physical examination and will review any existing laboratory and/or imaging studies. Dr. Leslie will then work with you to create a treatment plan that may include a personalized dietary strategy, supplement and/or herbal prescriptions, and recommendations for further lab work. The initial consult fee includes time spent before and after your visit for Dr. Leslie to review any past laboratory studies, paperwork, and intake forms provided and to develop your personalized care plan. Dr. Leslie will also provide detailed coaching on the implementation of your care plan throughout the duration of your care. An acupuncture treatment may or may not be performed given time and applicability.
Functional Medicine follow-ups are typically 60 minutes in length. Each visit will begin with an intake and physical exam as needed to assess your current condition and to evaluate any changes. If acupuncture is performed, you will rest with the needles in place for approximately 20 minutes. Frequency and number of follow-up visits will depend on the complexity of your case and your health goals. Dr. Leslie will update your care plan and continue to provide tools for implementing all diet and lifestyle recommendations throughout the duration of your care.