The functional medicine model is an individualized, patient-centered, science-based approach that empowers patients and practitioners to work together to address the underlying causes of disease and promote optimal wellness.It requires a detailed understanding of each patient’s genetic, biochemical, and lifestyle factors and leverages that data to direct personalized treatment plans that lead to improved patient outcomes.
By addressing root cause, rather than symptoms, practitioners become oriented to identifying the complexity of disease. They may find one condition has many different causes and, likewise, one cause may result in many different conditions. As a result, functional medicine treatment targets the specific manifestations of disease in each individual.
What is functional medicine?
Functional medicine is a patient-centred, science-based approach to healthcare that focuses on identifying and addressing the root cause of disease. It seeks to treat the whole person, taking into account their unique genetic, biochemical, and lifestyle factors to create personalised treatment plans that lead to improved patient outcomes.
What types of conditions can be treated with functional medicine?
Functional medicine can be used to treat a wide range of acute and chronic conditions, including autoimmune disorders, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, and chronic pain.
What are some of the techniques used in functional medicine?
Functional medicine practitioners use various techniques to identify and treat the root cause of disease, including advanced laboratory testing, dietary and lifestyle interventions, nutritional supplements, and mind-body therapies.
How is functional medicine different from conventional medicine?
Conventional medicine focuses on treating symptoms with medication, while functional medicine seeks to identify and address the root cause of disease using a personalised, systems-based approach. Functional medicine practitioners place a strong emphasis on the patient-provider relationship, taking the time to get to know their patients and work collaboratively with them to create a treatment plan.
Is functional medicine covered by private health insurance?
Many functional medicine treatments and services are covered by insurance, although it may depend on your specific plan and the practitioner you choose to work with. It's important to check with your insurance provider to see what's covered.
How long does it take to see results with functional medicine?
The length of time it takes to see results with functional medicine varies depending on the individual and the condition being treated. While some patients may experience improvements in a matter of weeks, others may require several months of treatment before seeing significant results.
Are there any risks or side effects associated with functional medicine treatments?
As with any medical treatment, there are potential risks and side effects associated with functional medicine treatments. However, because functional medicine seeks to address the root cause of disease using a personalised, holistic approach, it is generally considered to be a safer and more natural approach to healthcare than conventional medicine.