Q: Is the doctor accepting new patients?

A: We are no longer accepting new patients for consultation.

Q: Can I order supplements from your office?

A: Yes, we can take orders by email at reception@miamiholistic.com and process your order using our provider discount to get you a better price than ordering directly from the supplement manufacturer or from online retailers. We now offer free shipping on all orders within the continental US.

Q:  What is holistic medicine?

A:    Holistic Medicine is the art and science of healing that addresses care of the whole person – body, mind and spirit.  The practice of holistic medicine integrates conventional and complementary therapies to promote optimal health and to prevent and treat disease by addressing contributing factors.

In practice, this means that every person is seen as a unique individual rather than an example of a particular disease.  Disease is understood to be the result of physical, emotional, spiritual, social and environmental imbalance.  The role of the practitioner is as guide, mentor and role model.  The patient must do the work – changing lifestyle, beliefs and old habits in order to facilitate healing.  All appropriate methods may be used, from medication to nutritional supplements or herbs to hypnosis or meditation.

Q:    What types of concerns do patients bring to a holistic consultation?

 A:      Sometimes patients want to prevent conditions for which they may be at risk such as a family history of heart disease. Others want help finding the source of their problem, rather than just treating it with drugs.

Some may want to lose weight or improve their overall health status.  Others may want to establish a relationship with a physician who can integrate natural therapies into their treatment.

Often patients come who have chronic problems for which traditional treatment has been ineffective (such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue or multiple symptoms without a diagnosis), or for which they prefer a more personalized or natural approach.

Q:    What additional tests might be ordered?

A:      Additional tests ordered might include a detailed vitamin, mineral, and nutrient assessment to determine any deficiencies you currently have.  You will learn the significance of any deficiencies and what to include in your diet or supplements to replace them.

An extensive analysis of your digestive tract includes information such as digestive enzymes, inflammation, abnormal bacteria, yeasts or parasites, and a lack of protective bacteria.

Saliva or blood specimens may be ordered to evaluate female hormones, adrenal (stress) hormones, or thyroid hormones and antibodies.

Urine can be tested for heavy metals, usch as mercury.

Blood tests can be ordered to evaluate food allergies and sensitivities.

Q:    Are tests covered by insurance?

 A:      It depends on the particular test and your specific insurance policy.  We will use Quest Labratory when possible, which usually bills your insurance directly.  If you have a PPO, special tests may be covered at least in part. Sometimes a patient is required to pay the lab upfront and refunds are made to the extent that your insurance reimburses them for the test.  If you have an HMO, only usual tests done at the lab specified by your insurance are covered.