Functional Medicine
Functional Medicine addresses the underlying causes of disease, using a systems-oriented approach looking at the root cause of illness. It is an evolution in the practice of medicine that better addresses the healthcare needs of the 21st century. By shifting the traditional disease-centered focus of medical practice to a more patient-centered approach, Functional Medicine addresses the whole person, not just an isolated set of symptoms.
Terra Hartman, MSN, FNP-C, APNP
I found Functional Medicine in 2018 and have not stopped learning day in and day out since that time. I have completed a Fellowship in Functional Medicine through American Association of Functional Medicine with focus on Endocrine (Thyroid, Diabetes management and prevention, Energy and fatigue, Women’s and Men’s hormone management and the HPA axis), Cardiology (Hypertension, Coronary Artery Disease, Hyperlipidemia/Cholesterol, and Heart Disease Risk), Neurology , Gastrointestinal (Heartburn, Diarrhea, Constipation, Abdominal pain, bloating, yeast overgrowth, dysbiosis, Mental Health and the gut) and how each of these interact with the other systems.
It is my passion to discover the root causes of disease and symptoms, and safely reduce the reliance on medications and procedures whenever possible while empowering patients in their own healthcare through knowledge and timely, science-based research.
My training includes time spent with a Homeopathic MD learning about the nurturing world in our own back yards. Nature provides medicine rather than pharmaceutical symptom treatment. I love to forage in our own backyard and woods to harvest food and medicine the way nature intended it.
Having been in health care for over 20 years. From a Nursing assistant to Registered Nurse and ultimately a Nurse Practitioner. I draw from an extensive medical background in Memory Care, Long term care, Emergency Medical Care, Hospital Care, and Clinic Care.
My experience as a Primary Care Provider over 6 years was where the disconnect of traditional medicine and disease prevention/ resolution was most evident. Pharmaceutical medicine has its place but does a very poor job in preventing disease or fixing the root cause of many inflammatory disorders. The medical focus is typically symptom management rather than repairing the body, mind and spirit at the fundamental level.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the appointment work?
During each appointment, you will connect by a secure telemedicine system, so it feels like you are sitting right across the desk from Terra, no matter where you are located.
What about laboratory testing?
Some testing can be done through conventional laboratories, and others are only available through specialty laboratories. During your medical consultation, your provider will determine which tests are needed and will review testing recommendations, instructions (for instance, fasting or non-fasting, etc.) and costs.
Your financial resources and how much testing you want to do are taken into account, and the plan for testing is reviewed with you. Testing is frequently done to assess nutritional status, including amino acids, fatty acids, oxidative stress, vitamin levels, mitochondrial function, food sensitivities, and heavy metals. Many other tests are available including genetic testing for a variety of conditions, hormone evaluations, bone health, gastrointestinal health, adrenal function and many others.
Some testing can be performed at home with test kits to collect urine, saliva or stool. Others may require a blood draw. In all cases, we will assist you in coordinating initial and follow-up testing.
Do you sell nutritional supplements?
Yes, we often recommend nutritional supplements to patients in conjunction with lifestyle and dietary modification. In some cases, nutritional supplements can be used in place of more toxic prescription medications. We rely on scientifically based studies to guide our therapeutic decisions regarding nutritional supplementation. We have researched high-quality nutritional products and carry only those products that undergo rigorous quality testing by nutritional research laboratories. These products are often of higher quality than those sold over the counter and are free of fillers, allergens and additives.
What to Expect From Your Visit
Similar to other medical procedures, your initial consultation will consist of subjective and objective assessments. You can expect to complete paperwork asking for personal information and known medical history. The goal is to establish the most accurate diagnosis possible before formulating a treatment plan.
With a focus on prevention and reversal of disease, the functional medicine service offered will target your individual CELLULAR needs, get the body FUNCTIONING normal, and center around creating a HEALTHY lifestyle.
Get In Touch Today!
Our office is currently accepting new patients. We're here to help you explore integrated treatments for achieving the wellness and healing you're seeking. If you're looking for an alternative to surgery or invasive treatments, we'll show you how we can create a tailor-made plan to help your body heal itself.
Call Us
302-510-6780
Hours
Mon-Thurs: 8am-6pm