Functional Medicine
Functional medicine blends traditional medicine with what may be considered “integrative” or “alternative” medicine. This approach is often considered the future of traditional medicine due to its focus on prevention and its use of the latest advanced laboratory testing. Functional medicine uses a science-based approach to identify and address the root causes of disease. It is not a silver bullet or a one-size-fits-all approach, but rather views the entire body as one integrated system and aims to treat the whole person – not just their symptoms.
With functional medicine from Western Wisconsin Health, your provider will develop a unique plan for you with recommendations that may include:
- Prescribed supplements/drugs
- Therapeutic nutrition/diets
- Detox programs
- Stress management techniques
- Hormone balancing
- And more
Our dedicated and compassionate functional medicine practitioners take time to listen and analyze your history to determine how the unique interactions between your lifestyle, environmental, and genetic factors will impact your long-term health. You are unique, and the approach to bringing your system back into balance is individualized to you. Because of this, your functional medicine prescription is very different from anyone else’s. The primary goal is always to restore optimal function to your physiology and to move you toward greater balance and wellness in all aspects of life.
Unlike other functional medicine providers that have a cash-only practice, we do accept insurance for office visits and traditional labs. There may be out-of-pocket expenses for advanced testing and/or supplements.
Conditions Treated By Functional Medicine
At this time Sara Brown, CNM, CNP is working with women only (after first period through menopausal years) regarding the following conditions: anxiety and depression, weight gain, resolving insulin resistance, perimenopause/menopause symptoms, autoimmune disorders, Hashimoto’s disease, optimizing thyroid function (looking at full thyroid panel), gut health, colitis, IBS, skin rashes, PCOS, and fertility optimization. Sara is not currently seeing patients for chronic toxicity, mold sickness, Lyme disease, or mast cell activation syndrome.
Learn more about Sara Brown, CNM, CNP, APNP
Prevention Is Key
Because there has been a significant increase in the number of patients who suffer from complex, chronic diseases, much of today’s medicine is based more on “disease care” than “health care.” Diabetes, heart disease, cancer, mental illness, and autoimmune disorders are some examples of conditions that can benefit from a functional medicine approach. The health of an individual is greatly influenced by their diet, level of exercise, ability to manage stress, exposure to toxins, and hormone levels. By turning our focus to prevention and lifestyle changes, illness can be reversed, despite factors like genetics or age that are often perceived as potential barriers.
Functional Medicine Testing
Functional medicine testing may include:
- Advanced Cardiometabolic Panels
- Specialized Hormone Testing for Bioidentical Hormone Therapy
- Stool Testing for GI Imbalances
- Extensive Thyroid Testing
- Heavy Metal Testing
- Genetic Testing
- Nutrient Testing
While most functional medicine providers have a cash-only practice, we do accept insurance for office visits and traditional labs.
Is Functional Medicine Right For Me?
While any patient could benefit from a functional medicine approach to their health care, some patients may not be interested in this approach. Functional medicine providers work with patients who are ready for change and who are willing to make the commitment needed to follow through with the recommendations that are made.
Although remarkable improvement can occur with simple changes, individuals with complex illness will often find that the path to wellness takes time to ensure long-lasting changes. The secret to a patient’s success is the combination of their dedication and access to the right information, tools, and health care team. Patients who are motivated, engaged, and empowered are most likely to be successful in achieving optimal wellness.
Functional Medicine Videos
Functional Medicine & Cardiovascular Health
In this video Dr. Clemma Nash, Functional Medicine Physician at the Western Wisconsin Health Roberts Clinic, will explain how functional medicine can benefit your heart health.
Meet Our Functional Medicine Specialist
Our Functional Medicine specialist is dedicated to providing exceptional care with a focus on personalized treatment plans. You’ll receive expert attention and compassionate support every step of the way.
