Frequently Asked Questions

Chiropractic care is a healthcare approach focused on the spine, nerves, muscles, and joints. A chiropractor uses hands-on spinal adjustments and other therapies to improve alignment, relieve pain, and support the body’s natural ability to heal. The goal is to restore normal motion and function in the musculoskeletal system without drugs or surgery.

Chiropractors primarily treat neuromusculoskeletal issues – in other words, any kind of muscle, joint, or bone pain or dysfunction. Common reasons people see a chiropractor include lower back pain, neck pain, headaches, sciatica, joint pain in the arms or legs, and injuries from accidents or sports. They ensure not only that your spine and joints move properly, but also that surrounding muscles are working well.

Yes – chiropractic adjustments are generally very safe when performed by a trained, licensed professional. Serious complications are extremely rare. Chiropractors are required to complete extensive training and licensure, which helps ensure patient safety. Like any medical treatment, there are some risks (for example, rare cases of a herniated disc or stroke have been reported), but these adverse events are uncommon.

For most patients, chiropractic adjustments cause little to no pain. In fact, an adjustment often feels relieving – similar to the release you might feel after cracking your knuckles. Your chiropractor uses controlled, gentle force, so while you may hear a pop or crack, it shouldn’t be painful. Some patients do experience mild soreness afterward (like post-exercise muscle soreness), but this typically fades within 24 hours.

The popping or cracking sound is simply gas bubbles being released from the joint fluid as the joint is adjusted. Joints contain fluid and gases (oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide), and when pressure is changed during an adjustment, gas is released which makes the sound. This release is normal and not harmful – it’s very similar to the sound when you crack your knuckles.

The number of sessions varies per individual. Some patients experience significant relief after just a few visits, while chronic conditions might require a longer treatment plan. Generally, if your issue is acute (recent onset), you may only need a handful of adjustments. For chronic or severe problems, a chiropractor may recommend a series of treatments over weeks or months. (Research shows spinal adjustments can effectively treat certain back pain, but if you don’t see improvement after a few weeks of care, it might not be the right approach for you) Your chiropractor will re-evaluate your progress regularly and adjust the plan as needed.

No, you typically do not need a referral. Doctors of Chiropractic are considered primary care providers in their field, which means you can usually make an appointment directly without seeing an MD first. Chiropractors are licensed to diagnose and treat patients independently, so unless your insurance plan specifically requires a physician referral for coverage, you can self-refer to a chiropractor.

Yes. Chiropractic care is often appropriate for children and pregnant women, with techniques modified for safety. Many chiropractors treat patients of all ages – even infants – to help with issues like alignment after birth or postural problems in kids. Pregnant women often find chiropractic helpful for relieving back pain or pelvic discomfort as their body changes. It’s recommended to inform the chiropractor of pregnancy so they can use proper techniques (and you should also clear it with your OB/GYN). Overall, when performed by a trained practitioner, chiropractic for these groups is gentle and considered safe.

You'll find many chiropractic offices do not accept insurances because these companies dictate which services are covered and how much the doctor can charge for them. Often times, you’ll find that the care becomes rushed, limited, or focused only on what insurance will reimburse — not what the patient truly needs. At Harmony Health Clinic, we operate on a cash-based model so we can give each patient the time, attention, and personalized care they deserve, without interference from insurance companies. This allows us to use a wider range of techniques, customize your treatment plan, and focus on real healing — not billing codes.

Functional medicine is a personalized, science-based approach to healthcare that focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of illness rather than just treating symptoms. A functional medicine practitioner evaluates the body as an interconnected whole – looking at factors like nutrition, hormones, gut health, genetics, and lifestyle – to find underlying imbalances. The aim is to support the body’s natural healing mechanisms and prevent or reverse chronic disease by treating causes instead of masking symptoms.

Traditional conventional medicine often focuses on managing symptoms of disease, primarily through medications or surgery, especially in acute conditions. Functional medicine, by contrast, takes a deeper investigative approach to find why those symptoms are occurring. For example, instead of simply prescribing a drug for high blood pressure, a functional doctor will explore underlying factors (diet, stress, inflammation, etc.) that contribute to the hypertension. It’s a more holistic and preventative strategy – functional medicine practitioners spend more time with patients, look at a broad range of lab tests, and emphasize lifestyle changes, nutrition, and targeted supplements to correct core imbalances. The goal is true healing of the person, not just temporary symptom relief.

Functional medicine is often sought for complex or chronic health issues that don’t have a quick fix. This approach can be beneficial for autoimmune diseases, chronic fatigue, digestive disorders (like IBS), hormonal imbalances (thyroid or menopause issues), metabolic problems, mood disorders, and more. Because it looks at the whole person, many patients find that multiple concerns improve simultaneously – e.g. a functional medicine plan for an autoimmune issue might also increase energy and improve digestion. Our functional medicine team has experience managing conditions such as fibromyalgia, chronic pain, diabetes, gut disorders, autoimmune conditions, and other persistent illnesses by searching for the root causes and addressing them. If you have long-standing symptoms or a mix of issues that haven’t been resolved through standard care, functional medicine may offer new insights.

Insurance coverage for functional medicine is limited. In most cases, health insurance does not fully cover the extended consultations and specialized testing that functional medicine involves. Some functional medicine providers operate on a self-pay or membership basis because they spend more time per patient than a typical insurance-based visit allows. That said, standard labs or parts of the evaluation might be covered, and a few practices do accept insurance for office visits. It’s best to check with your insurance and the specific clinic. Be prepared that you may need to invest out-of-pocket in this type of care – many find it worthwhile for the personalized attention and results. We will provide receipts/superbills if you wish to seek reimbursement, but generally functional medicine is an out-of-pocket investment in your health.

Yes. Functional medicine physicians (who are often MDs or DOs) are fully licensed and can prescribe medications when necessary. The difference is that they will typically use medications more judiciously, and often as a secondary approach after lifestyle, nutrition, or supplement strategies. If you truly need a prescription (for example, thyroid hormone replacement or an antibiotic for an infection), a functional medicine provider will absolutely prescribe it. They do not reject pharmaceuticals – they simply aim to find non-pharmaceutical solutions when possible and use meds in combination with addressing root causes. You get the best of both worlds: conventional medicine tools and natural approaches.

In most cases yes, but at Harmony Health Clinic, we confidently offer primary care services for many acute and chronic conditions and illnesses. We provide specialist referrals for anything we can't treat ourselves. Our functional medicine expert practitioner happily collaborates with your primary care doctors and specialists, ensuring you get the best advice and care unique to your conditions.

Yes – we offer functional medicine consultations via telemedicine for anyone residing in Florida. Because our providers are licensed in Florida, we can work with patients all across the state through secure video visits. That means you don’t have to be in Naples to benefit from our functional medicine services. Whether you’re in Miami, Orlando, or anywhere else in Florida, you can have your appointments remotely and get personalized guidance. (For lab work, we can order tests at facilities near you, and supplements or treatment plans can be managed at a distance.) This telehealth option makes functional medicine accessible no matter where you live in Florida – we’re just a video call away.

What is holistic or natural primary care?
It’s an approach to primary healthcare that treats the whole person – body, mind, and lifestyle – using both conventional medicine and natural therapies. In a holistic primary care practice, your provider is a fully trained medical professional (MD, DO, ARNP, etc.) who can handle all the typical primary care needs (checkups, illnesses, managing chronic conditions), and they place extra emphasis on nutrition, preventive care, stress management, and other natural strategies. The idea is to address underlying causes of issues and promote wellness, not just prescribe a pill for every symptom. Holistic primary care still covers things like managing blood pressure, treating infections, and ordering labs – but it will also include guidance on diet, supplements, exercise, and other lifestyle factors as part of your treatment plan.

The main difference is the philosophy and scope of treatment. A regular primary care provider might diagnose and treat a condition with standard protocols (medications, referrals, etc.), whereas a holistic primary care provider will do the same plus consider natural options and spend more time on education. For example, in holistic care, a plan for high cholesterol might include diet changes, natural supplements, and exercise coaching in addition to or instead of immediately starting a medication. Holistic primary care visits tend to be longer and more personalized, often reviewing aspects like nutrition, sleep, stress, and even emotional well-being because these impact health. In summary, holistic primary care delivers all the services of conventional family medicine but customizes the treatment with integrative methods and a focus on overall wellness.

Yes – our holistic primary care providers are fully credentialed medical professionals. “Holistic” or “natural” simply describes their treatment philosophy, not their qualifications. Many are board-certified in fields like family medicine or internal medicine and then have additional training in integrative or functional medicine. For instance, an integrative primary care physician has completed conventional medical school and residency, and often a fellowship in integrative medicine. You get someone who can prescribe antibiotics or order an X-ray when needed, but who can also recommend a herbal remedy or lifestyle change. Rest assured, you are in the hands of licensed experts who can meet all standard medical requirements – they just bring extra tools to the table.

They absolutely can prescribe medications when necessary. Being holistic doesn’t mean rejecting pharmaceuticals – it means using a broader range of treatments. In our practice, if you need an antibiotic for an infection or an inhaler for asthma, you’ll get it. However, we also might suggest natural or preventive steps alongside (or sometimes instead of) medications. For example, we might treat acid reflux with dietary changes and herbal supplements first, but we can prescribe an acid-reducer if needed. You get a balanced approach: conventional medicine’s benefits plus natural therapies. We aim to use the least invasive effective option, but if a prescription drug is the best choice for your health, we will use it judiciously (and monitor you closely just like any primary care office).

Yes – we provide family-centered primary care for all ages, including children. Our holistic approach is beneficial for kids and adults alike. We can perform well-child checkups, treat common pediatric illnesses, and guide parents on natural options for children’s health (while still using standard care like vaccinations or antibiotics as appropriate). Many young families choose our practice because they want a pediatric-friendly doctor who also considers nutrition and lifestyle. From infants to seniors, our clinic welcomes patients of every age. We take a whole-family approach, so if you’re a parent looking for a more natural-minded primary care provider for your kids (and yourself), we’re happy to serve that role.

In many cases, yes, insurance can cover holistic primary care visits just as it would any primary care visit – as long as the provider is in-network or the services are billed under standard codes. Our clinic is a primary care provider’s office, so office visits, checkups, and labs are typically billed to your insurance like usual. Do note that some holistic or integrative practices operate on a membership or cash model (to allow longer visits not constrained by insurance); in such cases insurance may not be billed. In our case, we will let you know upfront how we handle insurance. Generally, you can use your insurance here for covered services just as you would with any family doctoraurorahealthcare.org. Always verify your benefits, but holistic care is simply primary care with a twist – it doesn’t mean it’s outside of insurance, unless specified.

Holistic primary care providers are happy to collaborate with specialists, surgeons, or any conventional healthcare providers involved in your care. We refer to specialists when needed and respect standard treatment protocols – we just add complementary methods alongside. For example, if you’re under a cardiologist’s care for blood pressure, we’ll ensure they know what supplements or diet changes we’re doing, so it’s coordinated. Think of us as quarterbacks for your health: focusing on prevention and whole-person health, while still utilizing referrals for specialized needs. We don’t replace your specialists; we enhance and coordinate your overall care, ensuring that natural therapies do not conflict with any treatments from other doctors. Communication and teamwork with conventional providers is a key part of our approach.

Telemedicine (or telehealth) means receiving healthcare remotely via technology – usually through a secure video call or phone call with your provider. Instead of coming into the office, you can consult with the doctor from home using your computer or smartphone. During a telemedicine visit, we can discuss your symptoms, medical history, review labs or images, and even perform certain exams visually (for example, looking at a rash). It works almost like an in-person visit: we ask questions, you get to describe how you’re feeling, and we come up with a treatment plan – except it’s all done virtually. Telemedicine is very straightforward for patients: we’ll send you a link or portal to connect at your appointment time, and with a couple of clicks you’ll be face-to-face with your provider on screen.

Telemedicine offers major convenience for patients. You can receive care without the time and hassle of driving to the clinic, parking, and sitting in a waiting room. This saves travel time and is especially helpful if you have mobility issues or live far from our office. Telehealth also increases accessibility – people in rural areas or those who are homebound can still see specialists or primary care providers easily. It’s great for quick consults or follow-ups, too: for example, reviewing test results or managing a medication can be done in a 15-minute video chat. Overall, telemedicine can be more efficient (no time off work needed in many cases) and many patients find it just as reassuring to speak with their doctor via video. During times of public health concerns (like flu outbreaks), telehealth allows you to get care while minimizing exposure. It’s a safe, convenient, and effective way to access healthcare for many routine needs.

Telemedicine is very versatile. We commonly handle minor illnesses (such as colds, flu, allergies, sinus infections, sore throats), skin conditions (rashes, acne, minor wounds – via video), follow-up visits for chronic conditions (like discussing blood pressure or diabetes management), medication management, mental health consultations (therapy or medication follow-ups for anxiety/depression), and more. Essentially, if it doesn’t require a hands-on procedure or an immediate emergency intervention, it can often be addressed through telehealth. Our providers will let you know if something can’t be handled online and needs in-person evaluation (for example, listening to your lungs if you have severe breathing issues, or if you need a vaccine or blood draw – those require an office visit). But a large portion of primary care or functional medicine consults can be done remotely. If during a telemedicine appointment we determine you do need to be seen in person, we’ll arrange that – but telehealth covers a wide range of conditions from routine check-ups to chronic disease management in a convenient way.

Yes. Our telemedicine providers can prescribe medications electronically to your pharmacy, just as we would in person, if it’s medically appropriate. For example, we can send in prescriptions for antibiotics, allergy medications, birth control, blood pressure refills, etc. directly after a telehealth visit. There are some exceptions: certain controlled substances (like strong pain medications or ADHD stimulants) have tighter regulations – current laws often require at least one in-person evaluation before these can be prescribed via telehealth. But for the majority of common medications, telehealth prescribing is no problem. You’ll want to use a video visit (rather than just a message) for new prescriptions so the provider can properly evaluate you. Assuming it’s appropriate for your condition, you can conveniently get your meds after a telemedicine consult. (We cannot prescribe across state lines; you must be located in Florida for us to treat and prescribe due to licensing.)

Yes – we use secure, HIPAA-compliant platforms for all telehealth visits. Patient privacy is a top priority. The video conferencing tools are encrypted, meaning your session is protected and cannot be intercepted. We conduct telemedicine visits in a private setting on our end and ask that you do the same (e.g., find a quiet, confidential space for your appointment). No part of your appointment is recorded or shared without your consent. Telehealth technology has been designed to meet healthcare privacy standards, so your medical information stays just as confidential as it would in the exam room. In short, telemedicine is safe and private – only you and your provider are present in the virtual “room,” and all data transmitted is secure.

Often, yes. Many insurance plans now cover telehealth services similar to in-person visits. In the last few years, especially, insurers and Medicare/Medicaid have expanded coverage for telemedicine. This means if you have a routine visit or consultation via video, your copay and coverage may be the same as if you came to the office (some plans even waive the copay for telehealth). However, coverage can vary by insurer and policy – some may only cover telehealth for certain services or with certain providers. It’s a good idea to check with your insurance company about your telemedicine benefits. Our office can also assist in verifying coverage. If telehealth isn’t covered, you could still use it as an out-of-pocket service if you find the convenience worth it. But generally, insurers recognize telemedicine as part of standard care now and provide coverage for it.

Yes – our telemedicine services are available to patients anywhere within Florida. Our providers are licensed in Florida, so we can legally treat patients who are physically located in Florida at the time of the visit (whether you live here or are just present in the state). We cannot conduct telehealth visits for someone in a state where we’re not licensed. Within Florida, you do not have to be local – you can be in Tampa, Jacksonville, Tallahassee, etc., and still have a video appointment with us. We actually have functional medicine patients statewide who use telehealth exclusively. The key is that during the call, you must confirm you are in Florida (for legal reasons). So, while our clinic is based in Naples, feel free to connect with us from anywhere in the Sunshine State for telemedicine visits.

New patients are welcome to have their first visit via telehealth for many of our services. If you’re interested in our functional medicine or holistic primary care and live far from Naples (within Florida), we can do your initial consultation online. We will collect your history, discuss your concerns, and form a plan just as we would face-to-face. The only exceptions would be certain cases that truly require a physical exam or procedures that must be done in person. But for consultation-based services (like nutrition guidance, reviewing lab results, symptom evaluation, etc.), a new patient can absolutely start with a telemedicine appointment. This is actually quite common now. You’ll fill out new patient forms electronically and we’ll establish care over video. Should you ever need to be seen in person (for a hands-on exam or specific test), we can arrange that, but it’s not a prerequisite for most services. Telehealth can be a first point of contact for new patients seeking our care.

Anyone who holds a Commercial Driver’s License and operates certain types of vehicles is required to have regular DOT medical exams to maintain their certification. In general, you need a DOT physical if you: operate a commercial vehicle over 10,000 lbs, drive a vehicle that carries 15+ passengers (or 9+ passengers for pay), or transport hazardous materials that require placarding. In practice, this means most truck drivers, bus drivers, and commercial vehicle operators engaged in interstate commerce must get certified healthy by a DOT exam. Even if you drive intrastate, many states adopt similar requirements. If you’re a professional driver, the DOT medical certificate is as necessary as your license – it ensures you are medically fit to drive safely. Our Naples clinic provides DOT physicals for all commercial drivers, including those coming from anywhere in Collier County or beyond, as long as you need that medical card for your CDL.

A DOT medical exam (commercial driver’s physical) is a thorough health screening to determine that you are fit to safely operate a commercial vehicle. The exam includes: a review of your health history and current medications, a physical examination (checking vital signs, heart, lungs, vision, hearing, reflexes, etc.), a blood pressure check, and a urine test (not a drug test in this context, but a urinalysis to screen for underlying health issues like diabetes or kidney problems). Key things the examiner evaluates are your vision (you must have at least 20/40 vision in each eye, with or without glasses) and hearing (ability to perceive a “forced whisper” at a certain distance, or use of hearing aids), as well as that you don’t have medical conditions that could suddenly impair your driving (like uncontrolled epilepsy, certain heart conditions, etc.). You will not usually need to disrobe completely – generally, we’ll have you remove your shoes and maybe outerwear, but the exam is non-invasive (it’s not a full physical like a yearly check-up, but targeted to DOT standards). Expect it to take about 30 minutes. We will fill out the official Medical Examination Report and, if you meet the requirements, issue you a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (the DOT medical card) on the spot.

Up to 24 months (2 years) in most cases. If you pass your DOT physical with no significant health issues, the examiner will certify you for the maximum 2-year interval. However, if you have certain conditions that need monitoring – for example, high blood pressure, diabetes, or a new treatment that needs follow-up – the medical examiner might issue a shorter-term certificate. Common shorter certifications are for 1 year, 6 months, or 3 months, depending on the situation. For instance, a driver with controlled hypertension might get a one-year card and need to recheck yearly, or someone just above a blood pressure cutoff might get a 3-month temporary certification to improve it. But the standard, if you’re healthy, is a two-year card. Your certificate’s expiration date will be written on the card, and you must get re-examined before it expires to continue driving commercially.

DOT exams must be performed by a certified medical examiner listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) National Registry. Certified examiners can be a variety of healthcare professionals – medical doctors (MD), doctors of osteopathy (DO), physician assistants (PA), advanced practice registered nurses (APRN), or even doctors of chiropractic – as long as they have completed the required training and certification test to be listed on the FMCSA registry. Our clinic has an FMCSA-certified medical examiner on staff to conduct CDL physicals. Always ensure that whoever does your DOT exam is an official certified examiner; otherwise, the Department of Transportation won’t accept the exam. (We have the credentials and are listed in the registry, so your exam here will be valid and recognized.)

No – health insurance is not required for a DOT exam, and in fact, many insurance plans do not cover the cost of a CDL physical as it is considered an employment-related exam. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations don’t require an employer or insurance to pay for it. Most drivers pay out-of-pocket, though sometimes an employer will cover it. It’s rare for a personal insurance policy to cover DOT physicals (some might if coded as a preventive service, but it’s uncommon). Our clinic’s DOT exam fee is due at the time of service. We will provide a receipt, and if your employer reimburses or you have a health spending account, you can submit it. But don’t worry if you don’t have insurance – you can still get your CDL physical with us for a flat fee.

DOT physicals typically range from about $50 to $150, depending on the clinic and region. In our Southwest Florida area, the price generally falls in that range. Our exam fee is competitive and we’ll be happy to quote it to you when you call (it’s often around the middle of that range). Some employers cover the cost or have accounts with clinics for their drivers, so check with your company. If you’re paying yourself, know that it’s a one-time fee for the exam and certification; there’s no additional cost unless further testing is needed. We aim to keep it affordable for independent drivers. (And remember, it’s valid for up to 2 years, so it’s not a frequent expense.)

Many drivers with health conditions can still be certified, as long as their condition is well-managed and doesn’t pose an immediate danger on the road. For example, having diabetes or high blood pressure doesn’t automatically disqualify you – but it needs to be under control (with diet, medication, etc.) and within certain ranges during the exam. If you “fail” the exam due to a modifiable health issue, you are usually given a chance to get treatment and then return for re-evaluation. For instance, if your blood pressure is too high, the examiner might not certify you that day, but you could start medication per your doctor and come back in a few weeks for a second check. The DOT is primarily concerned with conditions that could cause sudden incapacity (like uncontrolled epilepsy, severe heart conditions, uncontrolled diabetes that could cause fainting, etc.). If you have such a condition, you might need a special exemption or to be symptom-free for a period before passing. The bottom line: failing due to a treatable issue isn’t the end – work with your healthcare provider to improve it, then you can be re-tested and likely get certified. Our examiner will advise you on what steps to take if you don’t meet a requirement. Safety is the goal, not to penalize drivers with common health issues.

To make your DOT physical go smoothly, come prepared. Bring a valid photo ID (driver’s license) and your current medical certificate if you have one. Also have a list of any medications you take (with doses), and the name/contact of the doctor who prescribed them. If you have known medical conditions (like diabetes, heart issues, sleep apnea), bring documentation: for example, a recent blood sugar log or A1c for diabetics, or a clearance letter from your cardiologist if you’ve had a heart issue. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them (you’ll need them for the vision test) – same for hearing aids. It’s best to avoid heavy caffeine or smoking just before the exam, as these can spike your blood pressure. Try to stay hydrated and, if possible, don’t come in extremely full bladder or starving – a light meal is fine. There is a simple urine test (for sugar/protein/etc.), so arriving not overly dehydrated helps. Getting a good night’s sleep beforehand and taking your prescribed meds on schedule will put you in the best shape for passing. If you’re anxious about anything specific, feel free to call us in advance. The exam is straightforward, and by coming prepared you can usually be in and out quickly with your new medical card.

Yes, absolutely. We serve drivers from all over Collier County and beyond. You do not have to reside in Naples to do your DOT exam here. We often have truckers and commercial drivers who are passing through or who live in nearby areas (Marco Island, Immokalee, Fort Myers, etc.) come to us for their DOT physicals. As long as you have a valid ID and meet the requirements, we can examine you and issue your medical certificate regardless of your hometown. Your exam results are valid nationwide. We’re conveniently located in Naples and strive to accommodate walk-ins or quick scheduling for CDL exams, which is helpful for out-of-town drivers on tight schedules. So even if you’re based elsewhere, feel free to choose our clinic for your DOT medical needs when you’re in Southwest Florida.

It refers to a doctor-supervised weight loss program that utilizes medical expertise to help you lose weight safely and effectively. In medically assisted weight loss, you work with a physician or trained healthcare provider who guides you in making lifestyle changes (diet and exercise) and often uses tools like prescription weight loss medications or nutritional supplements to support your efforts. Unlike fad diets, this approach treats obesity or overweight as a medical condition – meaning we address underlying factors (metabolism, hormones, etc.) and monitor your health throughout the process. Essentially, it’s weight loss with professional help to maximize results and minimize risks.

Our program begins with an initial evaluation of your body composition, health status, and weight loss goals. From there, we craft a personalized plan that typically includes a structured nutrition plan (which could be a whole-foods diet or partial meal replacements, depending on your needs), a recommended exercise regimen, and behavioral coaching to develop healthy habits. What makes it “medically assisted” is that we may incorporate FDA-approved weight loss medications or supplements to help curb appetite, boost metabolism, or address specific issues. Throughout the program, you have regular check-ins – either in person or via telehealth – where we monitor your progress, adjust your plan, and provide accountability. We also track improvements in blood pressure, blood sugar, etc., as needed. The combination of physician guidance, tailored diet/exercise, and (if appropriate) medication gives you a safe structure for losing weight steadily. It’s not a one-size plan; it’s customized to you, which is why it’s effective for long-term success.

Anyone who is overweight or struggling with obesity can be a candidate, as long as you are ready to commit to the process. Our program can help whether you need to lose 15 pounds or 150 pounds. Typically, if your Body Mass Index (BMI) is 30 or above (obese), or 27+ with weight-related health issues (like diabetes or hypertension), you would especially benefit from medical weight loss intervention. That said, even those with lower BMI but who have tried and failed with DIY diets could consider it – we tailor to the individual. The program is not recommended if you are pregnant or nursing, and we’ll screen for any medical contraindications to certain weight loss meds. Candidates should be willing to attend regular follow-ups and make lifestyle changes with our support. If you’ve “done everything right” and still can’t lose weight, or your weight is affecting your health, you’re likely an excellent candidate for a supervised program like ours.

While results vary, a common expectation is a steady loss of approximately 1–3 pounds per week for women and 2–5 pounds per week for men in the initial phases. In some medically supervised plans (especially those that use meal replacements or certain medications), patients may see even more rapid short-term losses – but we emphasize safe and sustainable pace. Rapid crash dieting is not our approach; instead, we aim for consistent weekly losses that result in significant weight reduction over a few months. For example, some programs report an average of ~30 pounds lost in 3-4 months. Remember, plateaus can happen, but with our monitoring we adjust your plan to keep you progressing. The exact speed will depend on your starting weight, your adherence to the plan, and your metabolism. We celebrate even modest weekly losses, as those add up. Our ultimate goal is long-term success, so even after the more intensive loss phase, we focus on helping you maintain the weight loss.

Lifestyle change is a core part of the program. There is, unfortunately, no magic pill that works alone without any dietary adjustments. We will guide you on a nutritious, calorie-appropriate eating plan – this might be a specific meal plan, portion-controlled meals, or other structured diets depending on what fits you best. Regular exercise or physical activity is also encouraged as part of the program because it helps with fat loss and maintenance. Medications (if prescribed) and supplements are adjuncts – they help reduce appetite, cravings, or improve metabolism so that it’s easier for you to stick to the diet and activity goals. Think of the medication as a tool that works with your healthy eating, not a substitute for it. The good news is that with the right support, many patients find the diet is not about starvation but about smarter choices and sometimes meal replacements that make things convenient. We’ll work with you to make the nutritional changes manageable. But to be direct: yes, you will need to be mindful of your diet and habits – that’s where the lasting results come from – and we’ll be there to support you every step.

The specific medication (if any) depends on your medical profile and how much weight you need to lose. Common FDA-approved prescription weight loss medications include appetite suppressants like Phentermine, or combination drugs like Contrave (naltrexone/bupropion) or Qsymia (phentermine/topiramate). There are also newer agents like GLP-1 agonists (for example, semaglutide, known by brand names like Ozempic/Wegovy) which can be very effective for significant weight loss – these are injectable medications originally for diabetes but now used for obesity. In addition, we might use lipotropic injections (vitamin shots that aid metabolism) or other supplements. Any supplements we recommend are evidence-based and often medical-grade. The choice of medication is personalized: we consider factors such as your appetite, lifestyle, any heart conditions or blood pressure issues, etc. Not everyone will need medication, but if you have a lot of weight to lose or strong hunger cravings, a prescription can greatly assist your progress. We will explain the risks and benefits of any recommended drug. And throughout the program, we monitor for side effects and effectiveness, adjusting the plan as needed. All medications are used in accordance with medical guidelines to ensure safety.

Yes, it is designed to be safe – that’s a big advantage of having a doctor oversee your weight loss. Because we monitor your health parameters (like blood pressure, blood sugar, etc.) regularly, any issues that arise can be caught early and managed. The strategies we use, whether diets or medications, are backed by clinical evidence and tailored to you, which is much safer than a fad diet you might try on your own. We also ensure that weight is lost at a healthy rate, minimizing risks such as electrolyte imbalances or gallstones that can occur with rapid, unsupervised weight loss. If medications are prescribed, they are ones approved for weight management and we use the proper dosages and watch for side effects at follow-ups. Many patients actually find their overall health markers improve during our program (blood pressure comes down, blood sugar improves, etc.). Of course, any medical intervention has potential risks, but by having professionals guide you, those risks are greatly reduced compared to DIY methods. You will have frequent contact with our team, so you’re not alone – it’s a supported and medically controlled process, which is the safest way to lose weight aside from gradual lifestyle changes on your own.

Insurance coverage for weight loss varies, and unfortunately many plans do not cover dedicated weight management programs or weight loss medications. Some insurers still consider weight loss programs “elective” or not medically necessary (despite obesity being a medical condition). For example, many commercial insurance plans and even Medicare do not pay for nutritional counseling for obesity or for FDA-approved weight loss drugs – or they have strict criteria for coverage. That said, there are exceptions: certain employers or plans might cover physician visits for obesity or have programs you can enroll in. Our practice will provide you with documentation (superbills, letters of medical necessity) if you want to try for reimbursement or to use a Health Savings/FSA account. Some patients use HSA funds to pay for program fees or medications. It’s best to call your insurance and ask if obesity management or nutritional counseling is a covered benefit. As it stands, be prepared that you may need to invest out-of-pocket for a quality medical weight loss program. We do strive to keep it as cost-effective as possible and will be transparent about any fees upfront. The long-term health benefits – and potential savings from preventing chronic disease – often outweigh the initial costs for our patients.

“Medical-grade” supplements (also called pharmaceutical-grade supplements) are high-quality vitamins, minerals, herbs or nutraceutical products that meet much stricter standards than typical over-the-counter supplements. These are products usually dispensed through healthcare professionals. They are manufactured in facilities that follow pharmaceutical Good Manufacturing Practices and are often third-party tested for purity and potency. In short, medical-grade supplements contain what they say they contain – in the exact doses listed – and are free from contaminants or unnecessary fillers. They’re essentially the elite class of supplements, held to similar standards as prescription medications would be, to ensure you’re getting a safe and effective product.

The differences come down to purity, potency, and quality control. Medical-grade supplements are required to be ≥99% pure, with no binders, fillers, dyes, or unknown additives. Over-the-counter (OTC) supplements, on the other hand, can vary widely in quality – independent tests have found that some store supplements don’t contain the levels of nutrients claimed on the label, or they have impurities. Medical-grade products undergo rigorous testing (often by third-party labs) to confirm that each batch has the exact ingredient identity and strength listed. They also use higher-quality ingredient sources – for example, using bioactive forms of vitamins that are better absorbed. Because of this, medical-grade supplements tend to be more bioavailable (the body can absorb and use them more effectively) and more potent per dose than many regular supplements. Essentially, with medical-grade you are paying for guaranteed quality: you know that the fish oil or probiotic or multivitamin has been produced under top standards and will deliver the intended benefits, whereas with a random bargain supplement, there’s more uncertainty. In summary, medical-grade = verified, pure, and reliable, whereas store supplements can be hit-or-miss.

If you’re going to invest in supplements for your health, you want to make sure they actually work and aren’t contaminated – that’s why medical-grade supplements are worth it. They ensure you get the therapeutic benefit you’re looking for. For example, if your doctor recommends vitamin D or omega-3 fish oil, a medical-grade version will have higher potency and purity, so it’s more likely to raise your vitamin D level or improve your inflammation markers than a low-cost generic that might be diluted. Medical-grade supplements also tend to be formulated based on clinical research – so the forms of nutrients chosen (say, methylated B12 instead of cyanocobalamin, or a specific curcumin extract for turmeric) are ones shown to be effective in studies. There’s also peace of mind: these products are often third-party verified and free of common allergens and fillers, so you’re less likely to react poorly or ingest something unwanted. In short, using medical-grade supplements means you’re addressing your nutritional needs with something that’s as close to prescription-quality as possible. Our clinic believes if you’re going to take a supplement, it should be the best quality so you truly get results (and don’t waste money on something ineffective). Many patients actually feel the difference when switching to medical-grade (for instance, increased energy from a better B-vitamin, etc.). It’s an investment in your health quality.

No, you don’t need a prescription – supplements aren’t prescription drugs – but medical-grade supplements are typically sold through healthcare practitioners. You won’t usually find them on the shelf of a big box store. Instead, you purchase them from a doctor’s office, a clinic’s dispensary, or authorized online stores linked to a provider. We carry a selection of these professional-grade supplements at our clinic (and via our website) for our patients. Even non-patients can often buy them, but the idea is that a knowledgeable provider is recommending and overseeing their use. They are sometimes called “practitioner-only brands.” So while you don’t need a doctor’s paper prescription, you do need to get them through a medical channel (which ensures guidance on proper usage). Our staff can advise you on which supplements are appropriate for your situation – and we make the ordering process easy for you. The benefit here is you also get our expertise; you’re not guessing in the vitamin aisle, and you’re getting a product we trust.

Yes – in fact, their safety is one of the key reasons we prefer them. As mentioned, these products are extremely pure (99%+ pure, with no hidden junk), so the risk of contamination with heavy metals, toxins, or drugs is minimal compared to some OTC supplements. They’re made in FDA-inspected facilities under strict quality control. That said, it’s important to remember that any supplement at high doses or used inappropriately could cause side effects – “natural” doesn’t automatically mean 100% risk-free. But when used as directed, medical-grade vitamins and supplements have a strong safety profile. We will review your health and medications to avoid any interactions (for example, if you’re on a blood thinner, we’d be cautious with high-dose fish oil or vitamin K). The bottom line is, by using pharmaceutical-grade supplements, you reduce the safety risks associated with supplements because you know exactly what you’re ingesting. And with our guidance, you’ll be using them correctly. Many of our patients find these supplements not only safe but also beneficial in improving their health outcomes under our supervision.

Yes. Our medical-grade supplements and wellness products are available for purchase to anyone, not just established patients. We believe in making high-quality supplements accessible to the community. You can stop by our Naples office to buy them, or you can order through our online store/phone line and we’ll ship them to you if you’re outside the area. We routinely ship to customers across the United States. So even if you’re not a patient receiving care here, you can still obtain the same top-tier supplements we recommend to our patients. We do advise that you know what you’re looking for or have had a consultation, just so you choose the appropriate products for your needs. If you’re unsure, we can schedule a brief supplement consultation to help select the right ones. But geography is not a barrier – our supplements can come straight to your doorstep. We’ve made it convenient for anyone to get professional-grade nutritionals, because we stand by their quality and want everyone to have the option to use them.

We carry a wide range of supplements to support various aspects of health. This includes high-potency multivitamins, specific vitamins like vitamin D, vitamin B12, and vitamin C in bioavailable forms, and minerals like magnesium or zinc chelates. We also have omega-3 fish oil (ultra-pure and concentrated), probiotics for gut health (with guaranteed live cultures), and botanical supplements (such as curcumin/turmeric, adaptogenic herbs, etc.) that meet our quality criteria. For those looking for metabolic support, we offer things like medical-grade protein shakes or meal replacement powders, and specialty formulas for detoxification or inflammation control. Every product on our shelves has been vetted – for example, we partner with well-known practitioner brands that do extensive testing. Whether you need immune support (like a quality elderberry or vitamin D complex), joint support (e.g., glucosamine/chondroitin of pharmaceutical grade), or help with sleep/stress (like pure melatonin or magnesium glycinate), we likely have a product available. And if we don’t stock a particular item, we can often order it for you. The key is that whatever the category – be it general wellness or targeted therapy – the supplements we offer are top-tier. If you have a recommendation from our doctor or even another healthcare provider for a certain supplement, chances are we can provide a medical-grade version of it.