Functional Medicine Practitioners Run More Extensive Lab Tests

Question

Mariel Monroy · Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, the lab tests that traditional medicine practitioners run are very limited and are often restricted by insurance and reimbursement rates. The mainstream healthcare model is designed to diagnose a disease that corresponds to drug treatment. The labs that are typically ordered are minimal and oftentimes do not provide sufficient information to properly treat a patient’s health issues let alone allow them to improve the quality of their health. We see this problem very often when evaluating a patient with current or suspected thyroid dysfunction. Many mainstream medical practitioners will only run a TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) to evaluate the thyroid. Although this marker is extremely important, there are 12-15 additional markers that are hugely important in making an accurate diagnosis. Many thyroid issues are often undiagnosed or missed due to this lack of appropriate testing.

Comprehensive lab tests are vital and provide must needed insight to establish the best, most patient-centered treatment plan possible.
Functional medicine customizes health care
Mainstream medicine takes a standardized approach to health care or a “one size fits all”. Diagnose a disease and prescribe medication. This method works for some but more often than not it falls severely short, leaving patients feeling hopeless for answers and relief.
Functional medicine looks at the patient as a whole and customizes a comprehensive healthcare plan that is specific to their individual needs and health-related issues.