As a board-certified endocrinologist with nearly a quarter-century of experience, I have dedicated my career to understanding the intricate interplay of hormones and their profound impact on health. Over the years, I have witnessed the strengths of traditional medicine in diagnosing and treating complex endocrine disorders, as well as its limitations in addressing the root causes of chronic conditions.

This realization inspired me to establish a separate functional medicine practice with a specialized focus on endocrinology, where I combine the precision of conventional medical training with the holistic, patient-centered principles of functional medicine. My goal is to offer patients a comprehensive, individualized roadmap to better health that bridges the best of both worlds.

In my practice, I integrate the evidence-based rigor of traditional endocrinology with the investigative, whole-person approach of functional medicine. Traditional medicine excels in acute care, leveraging advanced diagnostics and targeted therapies to manage conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, adrenal dysfunction, and other hormonal imbalances. However, many patients with chronic endocrine issues—such as persistent fatigue, weight gain, or metabolic dysfunction—require a deeper exploration of underlying causes, including nutrition, lifestyle, stress, and environmental factors. Functional medicine provides the framework to address these root causes, emphasizing prevention and long-term wellness.

 This hybrid model allows me to tailor treatment plans to each patient’s unique needs. For example, a patient with hypothyroidism may receive standard thyroid hormone replacement therapy while also exploring dietary interventions to reduce inflammation, gut health optimization to improve nutrient absorption, or stress management techniques to support adrenal function. By combining pharmaceutical interventions when necessary with lifestyle and nutritional strategies, I empower patients to achieve sustainable health outcomes rather than relying solely on symptom management.

One of the cornerstones of my practice is the time I dedicate to each patient. Unlike the conventional medical model, where appointments are often rushed, I prioritize deep, meaningful interactions. Initial consultations last 1.5 hours, allowing me to take a comprehensive history, understand the patient’s health journey, and explore factors beyond their immediate symptoms. This extended time fosters trust and ensures no stone is left unturned in identifying the drivers of their condition. Subsequent visits, at 30 minutes, provide ample opportunity to review progress, adjust treatment plans, and address new concerns.

In an era of rapid technological advancement, I judiciously incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance patient care. AI serves as a powerful tool to analyze complex data, identify patterns, and generate insights that inform my clinical decision-making. For instance, AI can help synthesize information from lab results, genetic profiles, and lifestyle factors to construct a detailed roadmap to better health. This allows me to craft highly individualized treatment plans that address both immediate needs and long-term goals.

My functional medicine practice operates on a fee-for-service basis, reflecting the personalized, time-intensive care I provide. This model allows me to focus on quality over volume, dedicating the necessary resources to each patient’s journey. While the consultation and treatment planning fees are out-of-pocket, I strive to make laboratory testing accessible. Standard laboratory work is typically covered by insurance, ensuring patients can access essential diagnostics without additional financial burden.

Endocrinology is uniquely suited to a functional medicine approach. Hormones act as the body’s messengers, influencing nearly every physiological process, from metabolism to mood. Imbalances in one area—such as insulin resistance or cortisol dysregulation—can cascade across systems, leading to widespread symptoms. Traditional endocrinology often focuses on isolated hormone levels, but functional medicine allows me to explore the broader context: How does poor sleep affect cortisol? How do dietary choices influence insulin sensitivity? How might environmental toxins disrupt thyroid function?

My practice is built on the belief that health is a journey, not a destination. I see myself as a guide, equipping patients with the knowledge, tools, and support to take charge of their well-being. Whether it’s teaching a patient with diabetes how to balance their plate to stabilize blood sugar or helping someone with adrenal fatigue incorporate mindfulness into their routine, my aim is to foster resilience and self-efficacy.