How it Works
Functional medicine and DPC provides an alternative option to patients across the country who want more from their doctor-patient relationship. For example, someone struggling with underlying issues such as fatigue, depression and anxiety has the opportunity to learn more about lifestyle factors that impact health status. Together, patients and providers address the root causes of ailments through diet, exercise, stress management, body treatments and supplements.
“It benefits anyone from a 6-month-old to a 90-year-old. It’s a whole life approach,” says Table Health Provider Meghan Sarna, FNP. “Many of our patients are in their 40s and 50s, a high-stress time of life when we are often raising children, taking care of our parents and in a demanding stage of our careers. Stress is a huge driver of our health.”
At Table Health, every patient receives a one-hour first visit to establish a relationship with a primary care provider and begin setting goals. From there, the approach looks like a hybrid of what you might typically expect from a primary care doctor with added aspects that are unique to functional medicine. For example, patients may get lab work and an annual physical, but also receive regular follow-up with a health coach throughout the year. Depending on each patient’s needs, a team of licensed physicians, advanced practice clinicians, nutritionists, bodyworkers, mental health professionals, health coaches and movement specialists work together to serve each individual.
“When you see how it impacts people’s health and see them get better, it’s inspiring,” says Table Health Provider Andrea Stoecker, D.O. “I’m passionate about it because it’s actually helping people live better and heal rather than covering up symptoms for short-term results.”
Driving Lasting Wellness
Trailblazing health centers like Table Health serve less as a conventional healthcare provider’s office and more as a hub for health. They offer more than annual physicals and urgent care by supporting patients year-round with educational resources such as webinars, lectures and classes to empower lifestyle changes that have an impact on both day-to-day wellbeing and long-term health outcomes.
The trend toward patient-centered, preventative care puts patients in control of their health and aims to ensure they feel seen and heard. Innovative approaches like DPC and functional medicine practiced at Table Health meet growing patient demand for a more individualized healthcare experience.
“If people leave and feel that someone was empathetic, compassionate, responsive and listened to them, then we are doing our job, and we are doing something really powerful in this community,” Stoecker says.