Functional Medicine

The first visit is typically an hour long. During that time the doctor will spend the first half of the appointment listening to your concerns and asking questions to get a complete picture of your health story. The second half of your visit will include an exam (when appropriate) and discussion of an action plan to strategize both short-term and long-term solutions for regaining health.

Initially treatment will focus heavily on lifestyle (sleep, stress management, exercise, etc) and dietary interventions to establish a stronger foundation of health. You will work closely with your doctor to develop health-forward, sustainable routines which work for you. After these adjustments have been made, the focus becomes strengthening weakened systems (eg. supporting the respiratory system when frequent lung infections are the concern) with an integrative approach using natural remedies and procedures. Common treatments include: herbal medicine, nutritional counseling, IV therapy, nutritional supplements, acupuncture, and at times, medications. Eventually, the last goal is to establish routines which maintain health and prevent development of chronic disease. This involves quarterly visits to your FoRM provider to proactively navigate the changing seasons and the evolving needs of our bodies.

Often, insurance will pay for the Functional Medicine visits at FoRM. In these instances, you will be responsible for the co-pay or co-insurance, which varies from plan to plan. Our providers are in-network with most major insurance plans with the exception of Medicare/Medicaid and United Health. If you would like to use your insurance plan, please provide your insurance information to the front desk so they can verify your benefits before your first visit. If you do not have insurance or have an out-of-network plan, we discount the cost of all visits and procedures, when paying at the time of service. Please call the front desk for estimated costs.

There are many laboratory options available, which can be difficult to navigate and know which is the best test for you. Your FoRM provider will discuss which test(s) are the most indicated for your unique circumstances. See below for the most commonly used lab tests.

Common Functional Laboratory Tests

• Comprehensive Hormone Testing
• Food Sensitivity Testing
• Stool (microbiome/ digestive function) Testing
• Heavy Metal Testing
• Mycotoxin (Mold) Testing
• Advanced Cardiometabolic Panels including inflammatory markers, early diabetes detection and detailed cholesterol panels
• Autoimmune Panels

Yes, these tests are often not covered by insurance. On occasion, your insurance may pay a portion of the cost. All expected fees will be discussed with you prior to ordering the tests, though fees are subject to change at the discretion of the lab company. All costs associated with these labs go directly to the lab company. Your FoRM provider does not benefit financially from ordering these tests. In contrast, standard lab tests, either partially or fully, are often covered by your insurance plan.

While our office is located in SE Portland, Oregon, many of our patients travel from the greater Portland area, including: Lake Oswego, Beaverton, Hillsboro, Tigard, Milwaukie, Happy Valley, and Oregon City, for in-office visits and procedures. We also offer virtual office visits, which allows us to provide service to anyone seeking care within Oregon, with the exception of procedures which must be performed in office.