Frequently Asked Questions
How is Integrative Medicine different from conventional medicine?
Integrative Medicine the focuses is on the underlying factors behind your symptoms. Treatment plans integrate Western medical practices, such as prescription medications, with what are sometimes considered “alternative” or “holistic” approaches like nutrition, botanical herbs, supplements, detoxification programs, stress-management techniques, and exercise, among others.
Who can benefit from an Integrative Medicine consultation?
Everyone. The goal of Integrative Medicine is not only to improve your health if you have a chronic illness, but to prevent future health issues. It’s a patient-centered and whole-body approach in which we address the whole person not just your isolated set of symptoms.
Who will I see at my appointments?
Your consultation is with our physician, Ann Hughes, M.D.
What happens during my first appointment?
You should expect to spend at least an hour-and-a-half (90 minutes) at your first appointment. You and Dr. Hughes will discuss your symptoms, health concerns, medical, family, and social history, childhood, diet, exercise and sleep habits, among other information, that will help create your treatment plan. We will also review any previous lab tests and/or medical records from your primary or specialty physicians so bring these with you if you have them. You will also have a physical exam as well as ample time to ask any questions you may have. At the end of the visit, Dr. Hughes will determine which laboratory tests are appropriate and suggest basic changes in your diet and adding nutritional supplements.
What happens at my second appointment?
By your second appointment, which is typically 1-2 months after the first, Dr. Hughes will have reviewed the results of any laboratory testing. She will combine these results with the results of your physical exam and the information you provided in the first appointment in order to create your treatment program. She may also refer you to other experts such as acupuncturist, chiropractor, or massage therapist to complement your treatment program.
Will there be a conflict between Dr. Hughes’s Holistic Wellness Center and my primary care or other specialty doctor if I’m on medication?
Dr. Hughes strives to have an integrative approach to practicing medicine that complements and improves upon conventional medicine. The treatment plans she creates combine Western medical practices, such as prescription medications, with what are sometimes considered “alternative” or “holistic” approaches like nutrition, supplements, exercise, and stress-management techniques. Dr. Hughes has a thorough understanding of conventional medication and can work with you to complement to your current medical regimen. That being said, if you are interested in getting off some or all of your current medications, she will work with your prescribing doctor towards this goal.
What are your office hours?
The Center is open Tuesday – Friday 9am – 5pm, Saturday 9am – 12 pm
What kind of insurance do you take?
While our center does not accept insurance, we are happy to provide you with the receipt containing the necessary diagnostic and procedure codes that you may send to your insurance company for reimbursement.
How do I pay for my visit?
Full payment is expected at each visit by cash, check or all major credit/debit cards.
What kind of laboratory testing do you do and is it covered by insurance?
Typically, any blood work that is requested from a lab on your insurance plan is covered. However, you may also take Integrative or Functional Medicine tests. These include urine, stool, saliva, and blood tests, some of which you may do at home. Generally, these things are not covered by insurance. Prices vary depending on which test you take, and reimbursement depends on your insurance.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations may be made up to 48 hours prior to your appointment time. Any cancellation or no-show after this will result in a charge for the full cost of the appointment.