FAQ:

 

What is BHRT?

BHRT stands for bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, and provides patients an alternative to traditional hormone replacement therapy. Bioidentical hormones are prepared to have the same molecular structure as the hormones produced by your body and are biologically identical to your own hormones. This minimizes side effects and maximizes wellness.

Bioidentical hormones are different from the more familiar prescribed hormones on the market. Most traditional hormone replacement therapy (HRT) products are synthetic and do not have the same molecular structure of hormones produced by your body. And because they are mass-produced, the strength of each hormone prescription cannot be varied based on individual needs.

 

Where do I get bioidentical hormones?

Bioidentical hormones are available in some mass produced, pharmaceutical products available at any retail pharmacy. Examples of these include some patches and gels. Bioidentical hormones can also be custom formulated for you at a compounding pharmacy, usually in a cream form. Your prescription will depend on your specific needs and factors such as financial abilities and convenience of location.

 

Do you prescribe other medications or just bioidentical hormones?

We combine traditional medicine with complementary medicine – and prescribe what is best for the patient. So yes, we will prescribe other medications if necessary, not just bioidentical hormones.

 

Do you take insurance?

We are categorized as “out-of-network” providers for insurance plans. We will provide the documentation required for you to bill your insurance company, and you will be reimbursed according to your out-of-network benefits. If you are unsure what your benefits are, please check with your insurance company prior to your appointment. In addition to our professional fees – there are the lab tests. Even though we are “out of network” – the labs we use may be in your network. We can provide you the list, for you to check with your insurance company.

 

Do I need a referral from my physician before I schedule an appointment?

No – physician referrals are not needed.

 

What can I expect on my first visit?

Your first visit is typically one hour long and will include review of your comprehensive medical history and a physical exam. Then, testing that is targeted to your symptoms and problems will be ordered. Treatment may be initiated at the first visit depending on your clinical situation. Please bring all of your medications and supplements (bottles) to your first visit for the doctor to review.

You will also have an hour long initial follow-up appointment after testing is done. At that visit, a comprehensive treatment plan will be developed for you. Subsequent visits will be 30 minutes long, typically, and will occur every 3-12 months depending on your progress.

 

What kind of testing can I expect?

You will most likely be asked to get a combination of blood and saliva testing. Blood work is usually done at the lab that contracts with your health insurance, if you have it. If you do not have insurance, we work with several labs that offer reasonable cash pricing for blood work.

 

Saliva testing is the preferred testing method for steroid hormones, including sex hormones and cortisol. If you have symptoms referable to these hormones, we will most likely ask you to do a “spit test.” We will give you a kit to complete the testing at home. You will pay our office for the testing at the time you take the kit, and you can file with your insurance company for reimbursement. Insurance often pays for saliva testing, but we cannot guarantee that.