How to Find a Functional Medicine Doctor That Fits Your Needs

According to a 2019 study, 72% of Americans avoid taking prescription medications, and 55% use alternative medicine whenever possible. Functional medicine, the science-backed holistic approach to diagnosis and treatment, is growing in popularity across the US. With more and more providers to choose from, many wonder how to find a functional medicine doctor they can trust with their most valuable asset: their health.

Why Functional Medicine?

Functional medicine has become a leading choice in holistic healthcare for a good reason. Functional medicine practices combine cutting-edge technology with time-tested, whole-body treatment philosophies. This approach focuses on addressing the root causes of medical conditions, not just managing symptoms.

The relief provided by functional medicine goes beyond temporary symptom suppression. It’s a long-term approach that aims to reverse the underlying issues causing the condition in the first place.

Finding a Functional Medicine Doctor You Can Trust

If you’re wondering how to find a functional medicine doctor you can rely on, look for these qualities:

A Good Listener

One of the reasons patients turn to functional medicine is because they don’t feel like their conventional doctor listens to them. Even worse, some patients feel their physician doesn’t take their symptoms or concerns seriously. 

A recent study found that 72% of surveyed patients reported some form of medical gaslighting involving bias, judgment, stereotyping, and dismissal of symptoms as unimportant. Even more alarmingly, 71% of the survey’s respondents reported being told by a provider that they imagined their symptoms.

An essential component in how to find a functional medicine doctor involves ensuring that the provider listens to you and addresses all your medical concerns. If the provider dismisses you, look elsewhere for your care.

Flexibility

For many, it’s not just how to find a functional medicine doctor but how to find one that is flexible and willing to work with your unique needs. This includes finding a provider with telehealth options, phone consultations, and office visits.

The flexibility of the provider’s focus is another critical factor. Functional medicine doctors act as primary care but can also specialize in one practice area. Look for a team of specialized providers working together to create comprehensive treatment plans addressing nutrition, IV therapies, women’s health, and chronic conditions.

Lastly, functional medicine doctors shouldn’t be out to ruin your fun and take away everything you love. Look for a provider who can find areas in your treatment plan that may be a little more flexible, if possible, to ensure you stick with it. 

Transparent Fees

Thanks to the rising costs of traditional medicine, a single office visit can include separate lab bills, specialist bills, and even bills from doctors you never saw. Your physician also has several tiers of office visits and costs, ranging from brief to comprehensive. Complex insurance deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance add to the financial uncertainty.

Knowing what your medical care will cost before you commit to treatment is essential. Look for functional medicine doctors who are upfront and transparent about their fees to avoid unwelcome surprises. 

An increasingly popular approach to healthcare costs is the monthly membership model, which provides several levels of coverage available at different price points. This ensures your costs are predictable while you enjoy all the benefits of your healthcare package.

Values and Philosophy

An essential consideration in your search is how to find a functional medicine doctor who makes you feel comfortable. This is important because your office visits can last up to an hour.

An excellent functional medicine provider never makes your appointment feel rushed. They will take time to explain all findings, lab results, and treatment plans thoroughly.

There should be evidence that your provider practices what they preach. Don’t be afraid to ask for their personal recommendations regarding diet, exercise, and other lifestyle adjustments.

Lastly, your functional medicine doctor should never push expensive or unnecessary tests or treatment options. Make sure your provider understands your financial limitations and works within your budget.

Training and Certification

Qualifications Matter

Just because a practice claims to use a functional medicine approach doesn’t mean its providers are certified functional medicine doctors. In fact, it doesn’t necessarily mean the provider is licensed in medicine at all.

Finding the Right Specialist

Look for licensed, certified functional medicine doctors who hold credentials such as DO, NP, or MD and additional training in functional medicine. Their area of expertise can also be important. For instance, if you’re interested in functional medicine for women’s health, you might seek out a practitioner who specializes in that area. Similarly, if you have a chronic condition, look for doctors with experience in functional medicine for various chronic diseases.

Beyond Functional Medicine

For certain conditions, like autoimmune diseases, you might also consider researching top autoimmune doctors alongside functional medicine practitioners to broaden your options.

Do your research to ensure the provider has the qualifications and experience to address your specific needs.

Lab Work and Other Tests

Functional medicine lives at the intersection of science and nature. When wondering how to find a good functional medicine doctor, look for a practice that offers comprehensive lab work in its diagnostic and treatment approach.

Functional medicine doctors rely on standard lab tests and additional blood work, including food sensitivity, heavy metal testing, adrenal function evaluation, and tests for toxins. 

If necessary, your functional medicine doctor may order imaging in addition to blood work.

How to Find a Functional Medicine Doctor Near You

The best way to find a provider is through the recommendation of a friend or family member, but if this isn’t an option, here are a few tips on how to find a functional medicine doctor.

• Internet Search: Start with a “functional medicine Boston MA” search. Read reviews, check provider ratings, and browse testimonials on their websites. Explore “functional medicine Massachusetts” if you’re open to locations outside Boston.
• Social media: You can search any social media platform for hashtags or groups focused on functional medicine and ask the community for recommendations in your area. Most providers have social media pages, so check them out too.
• Healthgrades: Enter your city and state into a site such as Healthgrades to find a list of providers near you.

Once you have a shortlist, schedule initial consultations. These consultations, sometimes called “discovery calls,” are often free and a great way to assess the practice, the doctor’s approach, and if they align with your needs.

Understanding Functional Medicine:

If you’re unsure “functional medicine vs holistic medicine,” consider researching their similarities and differences to determine which approach best aligns with your preferences.

Focus on Finding the Right Fit

Finding a doctor who feels like the right fit is crucial. Beyond location, prioritize their experience, communication style, and treatment philosophy. Book an initial consultation with your top choices of potential providers. This consultation, sometimes called a discovery call, is usually free and is a great way to get a feel for the practice and the doctor’s approach to your health concerns.

Wondering how to find a functional medicine doctor in and around Newton, MA? Every day, Five Journeys helps people find their way back to health and vitality through affordable membership plans, comprehensive lab tests and treatment plans, and compassionate providers committed to every patient’s health and well-being. Start your journey with us today!