by Mila McManus, MD
When you visit a Functional Medicine physician for the first time, you may be shocked when you read your first treatment plan! These plans contain important information and instructions, and their length and content can feel overwhelming when you don’t feel well and are unfamiliar with how functional medicine differs from the traditional medical model. Let’s examine the reasons and benefits of detailed treatment plans and then find helpful solutions to overcoming the initial shock of getting one.
Why Is My Treatment Plan So Long and Complex?
Treatment plans are long and complex because you are a unique and complex individual. Unlike conventional managed medical care, our physicians practice individualized medicine. As the physician seeks to identify and address the root causes of disease, s/he must consider the gut biome, immune system, nutrition, genomics, lifestyle, stress, and your current symptoms, diagnoses, and concerns. This comprehensive individual approach to medicine combines advanced tests with time-proven protocols, therapies, supplements, lifestyle changes, and education. By the very nature of this comprehensive, individual approach, there is much to explain, recommend, and share with you! Your treatment plan is intended to give you confidence that there are healing solutions, and that your practitioner has a solid plan that fits your complex needs. It also reflects the content of your financial investment in your health and the partnership you are developing with your provider. And lastly, your treatment plan provides a thorough roadmap to reference as you progress towards better health and quality of life.
Solutions to Overcome Treatment Plan Shock
- Recognize that while long and detailed, your treatment plan empowers you to begin making choices and begin healing.
- Invest as much time carefully reading your plan as your provider spent preparing it for you. This will help you build a strong working partnership with your medical team.
- Print out the plan. Sit down and read it thoroughly, first noticing the divisions: Prescriptions, Supplements, Lab Orders, Other Plans, and future appointments.
- Start implementation by going to the “Other Plans and Follow-Up” section, where you’ll find Important Information and other recommendations. Take in each action Item one at a time, and then move on to the next one.
- Choose a different day to sit down with the Supplement Plan. Use a highlighter to mark timing and dose. Prepare your pill boxes and put non-pill supplements where you will remember to take them.
Still Overwhelmed and Struggling to Cope?
Are you having a difficult time coping with your health circumstances? Are you feeling anxious just thinking of starting your treatment plan? Are you worried about whether you can make the life changes needed for the success of your treatment plan? Would you find it helpful to have someone review your treatment plan with you? If you would like to meet with our health coach/counselor, Nancy Mehlert, she offers services (virtual appointments) to help you gain insight into your circumstances, increase your coping skills and resilience, and find a way forward on your journey to good health. Click here to schedule an appointment.
Go forward. Get Well.