INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE & PEDIATRIC RHEUMATOLOGY
OPENING SUMMER 2022
OPENING SUMMER 2022
OPENING SUMMER 2022
OPENING SUMMER 2022
about
THE PRACTICE
Rheumatology?
WHAT IS INTEGRATIVE
Integrative Rheumatology combines the specialties of rheumatology (pediatric rheumatology in this case) plus integrative medicine. It is a unique niche of rheumatology that blends traditional (Western) practices with evidence-based complementary therapies. In the management of juvenile arthritis for example, pharmaceuticals and a procedure such as a joint injection are used in addition to the anti-inflammatory diet, supplements, massage, acupuncture, and mindfulness training. This 360 degree approach allows us to optimize acute and chronic disease management while teaching children about resilience and adaptability.
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Joint Injections
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Immunosupression
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Supplements
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Sleep
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Nutrition
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Movement
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Mindfulness
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Acupuncture
WHAT IS INTEGRATIVE
Medicine?
Integrative medicine combines the best of both conventional and complementary medicine. For patients with chronic disease(s), integrative medicine allows us to take a proactive approach to their health because it tends to their sick and preventative care needs (think offense plus defense). How do we accomplish this? First, we evaluate every aspect of a person's health, from their symptoms, to nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress, resilience, and social support. Then, we treat illness(es) using a bigger toolbox of treatments, utilizing therapies from the West and East.
This model does not allow the patient to be a passive recipient of their medical care. It promotes active participation from the patient and their family, helping them understand that being “healthy” in the setting of a chronic illness is not a one-step process, but a life-long journey that requires responsibility.
WHO CAN PRACTICE INTEGRATIVE
Medicine?
Unfortunately, not all practices that claim to be "integrative" or "holistic" have practitioners who are specifically trained in integrative medicine. This is an extra fellowship in addition to residency and sub-specialty training that teaches evidence-based uses for complementary therapies. For example, if your provider recommends supplements, they should also educate you on the indication for taking the supplement, the evidence for its use, the risks and benefits of the supplement, potential drug interactions, and how to ensure you are buying quality products.
Rheumatologist?
WHAT IS A PEDIATRIC
Pediatric rheumatologists are doctors that are specialized in diagnosing and treating children with autoimmune and autoinflammatory conditions, which together are called pediatric rheumatic diseases. They can affect a child's muscles, joints, and connective tissues. Autoimmune and autoinflammatory disorders both stem from malfunctioning of the body's immune system but differ in which part of the immune system it affects. They can have overlapping symptoms like unexplained fevers, fatigue, muscle aches, joint swelling and stiffness, rash, and mouth ulcers.
Rheum to Grow
Does
Medical Insurance?
Accept
No. Rheum to Grow does not accept medical insurance.
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Some wonder why we have adopted a cash pay structure rather than opting to be paid in the usual way by patients insurance companies. The reason is that the time and level of care we provide is fundamentally at odds with the insurance-based medical model, which perpetuates a quick fix culture, discouraging meaningful relationships between families and their doctors.
By remaining out of network, we can collaborate with our patients to make important health decisions without interference from insurers (i.e. no middleman to dictate length or cost of the visit). As a result, the quality of care for a patient with a chronic illness is unsurpassed. Just check out our Google reviews!
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Our clinic model is also known as a cash pay or out-of-network practice. This means full payment is due at the time of the visit. We do not accept copays or insurance reimbursements. If you have out-of-network insurance benefits, you can submit a receipt (called a superbill) and your insurance may reimburse part or all of the visit. Our office can help give you the information needed for this process.
Simplifying Health Care
Other Providers
Extended patient visits
After-Hours Access to your Physician (no mid-levels)
Urgent Telehealth visits from any location (even if patient is out of state/country)
Same Day or Next Day Visits
Minimal to No Wait Times to be seen by sub-specialist
No copays, deductibles, or co-insurance
Smaller sized practice with a limited panel of patients to allow personalized care.
Larger sized practice in a larger office setting, multiple practitioners, and staff members
Care is directed by insurance companies including need for referral or prior authorization to see specialist
More time spent in the waiting room than with the doctor
Focus on preventative care in the setting of chronic illness
Production oriented: practice is reimbursed based on number of patients seen, time per patient visit is limited.
Care is directed by insurance companies including need for referral or prior authorization to see specialist
Pediatric rheumatologist with extra 2-year fellowship in integrative medicine
Doctor with more time to coordinate care with your child’s providers/specialists and school nurse/administrators.