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Have you recently completed a Genova Connect lab test? You might be wondering, "What's next?" Choosing the right healthcare model for your followup care can be pivotal in your journey towards optimal health. In this guide, we'll explore various healthcare practices to help you determine the best fit for your unique health needs based on your test results.
When to Consider: If your test results indicate specific health conditions, general practitioners and specialists in this model are adept at managing acute health issues.
What to Expect: Evidence-based treatment, prescription medications, and follow-up testing.
Drawbacks to Consider: Conventional practices might not always address the underlying causes of chronic conditions and practitioners may not be familiar with interpreting specialty lab results. Shorter consultations, a focus on medication over lifestyle changes, and working with multiple specialists to find relief can leave care feeling fragmented.
When to Consider: If you're looking for a blend of conventional and alternative therapies, integrative medicine can offer a comprehensive approach. This model is ideal if your test results are borderline or if you have chronic conditions that haven't responded well to traditional treatments.
What to Expect: Integrative practitioners will consider your test results within the broader context of your lifestyle, and health history. They might combine medications with alternative treatments like acupuncture, herbal medicine, or mind-body therapies.
When to Consider: Functional Medicine is ideal for those with chronic health issues or unexplained symptoms. If your test results are inconclusive or if you have persistent symptoms despite normal results, this approach might be beneficial.
What to Expect: Functional Medicine doctors will take a deep dive into your health history and lifestyle. They use your test results as a starting point for a more extensive exploration, often involving additional testing and a personalized treatment plan focusing on diet, lifestyle changes, and supplements.
When to Consider: If you prefer natural and holistic treatments, and your test results suggest lifestyle or dietary imbalances, a naturopathic approach might be suitable. This is especially relevant if you're focused on prevention and wellness.
What to Expect: Naturopathic doctors might use your test results to recommend dietary changes, herbal supplements, and lifestyle adjustments. They focus on natural healing and prevention, aiming to restore balance in the body.
When to Consider: If your test results point towards nutritional deficiencies or gut health issues that can be managed through diet, consulting with a nutritionist or dietitian can be extremely beneficial.
What to Expect: Expect a detailed dietary plan tailored to your test results. These professionals can help manage conditions like food intolerances, obesity, or hormonal imbalances through diet.
When to Consider: If you're an athlete or fitness enthusiast and your test results show areas for nutritional or hormonal optimization, a fitness coach or sports professional can help maximize your performance.
What to Expect: Personalized fitness and nutrition plans based on your test results, focusing on enhancing recovery, athletic performance, and achieving fitness goals.
When to Consider: Opt for DPC if you're looking for a patient-centered approach with personalized care, longer appointment times, and direct access to your physician without insurance involvement. Ideal for preventive healthcare and those valuing personalized attention.
What to Expect: Pay a monthly membership for unlimited access to your physician, covering office visits, virtual consultations, and basic procedures. Expect comprehensive, individualized care that emphasizes disease prevention and overall wellness.
Understanding your test results is just the beginning. Choosing the right followup care can significantly impact your journey towards optimal health. Whether you need targeted medical intervention, a holistic approach, or personalized dietary and fitness guidance, there's a path tailored for you.
Create an account and use Genova's Find a Doctor tool to search for clinicians in your area.
The Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM) is a great resource for individuals or practitioners interested in learning more about the functional medicine model. You can even search for a practitioner in your area who has trained with them.
The American Academy of Anti Aging Medicine (A4M) is another great resource for training and also offers a search for providers in your area.
This article is meant for educational purposes only and is not meant to be misconstrued as medical diagnosis or treatment advice.
