As we’ve journeyed along in our milso life, one of our most important realizations is how vital it is to prioritize our health and wellness. Everything pours from us! We are the foundation on which our military families function, and if that foundation is anything less than sturdy – we all lose.
This journey began with prioritizing moving our bodies, which yes, sounds simple enough, but when you’re battling an unpredictable/unreliable schedule from your partner, it can feel like one big ol’ mountain to climb. Fortunately, with time, lots of trial and error, and helpful tools (e.g., Sweat app, USAA’s Active&Fit Direct, etc.) we figured out a solid routine and were ready for what’s next, which led us to Functional Medicine.
We’ve both prioritized physicals with our OB-GYN during pregnancy and outside of it. We’ve also relied on general PCMs for routine checkups, illnesses, etc., but we wanted even MORE. We wanted a deeper understanding of our body, how it best functions and what interventions we can implement to make that foundation even more sturdy for ourselves and our families.
Enter this wonderful community and the recommendation for Lindsey Foreman from a WAF in our DMs! A Functional Medicine Nurse Practitioner who is a military spouse and works with TRICARE. A literal unicorn! While we both start our journeys with her, we wanted to be sure to share more information about who she is, what she offers and how you can work with her, so take a peek below and let us know in the comments if you have any questions!
In a world where conventional medicine often focuses on symptom management, functional medicine takes a different path. It’s a personalized, root-cause approach that aims to uncover and address the underlying factors contributing to illness. By looking at genetics, environment, lifestyle, and nutrition, functional medicine creates tailored treatment plans designed to restore balance and optimize long-term health.
What is Functional Medicine?
Functional medicine is a holistic approach to healthcare that views the body as an interconnected system. Instead of merely managing symptoms, it seeks to identify and treat the root causes of diseases. For instance, rather than prescribing medication for high blood sugar alone, a functional medicine practitioner would investigate potential contributors such as gut health, hormone imbalances, inflammation, and diet. The goal is to restore balance in the body and promote sustainable health.
Does Functional Medicine Replace a Primary Care Provider (PCM)?
Some functional medicine clinics do offer primary care services, but it’s not always the case. I practice virtually and do not offer primary care at this time. This means patients should continue seeing their PCM for routine visits, screenings, and acute illnesses. Virtual care has its limitations, such as the inability to perform physical exams (like looking in ears or listening to lungs).
Top Reasons to See a Functional Medicine Provider
Functional medicine can be particularly helpful when conventional medicine falls short. Here are some of the top reasons to consider it:
- Gut Health Issues
- Chronic bloating, gas, or IBS symptoms
- Acid reflux or GERD
- Food sensitivities and intolerances
- Leaky gut and microbiome imbalances, which can cause skin rashes, brain fog, and headaches.
- Hormonal Imbalances
- Irregular or painful periods
- PCOS, endometriosis, or infertility
- Thyroid disorders like Hashimoto’s or hypothyroidism
- Perimenopause and menopause symptoms (hot flashes, weight gain, mood changes).
- Weight Loss & Metabolic Health
- Stubborn weight gain despite diet and exercise
- Insulin resistance or prediabetes
- Metabolic syndrome and blood sugar regulation issues.
- Autoimmune & Inflammation-Based Conditions
- Chronic fatigue and brain fog
- Autoimmune disorders like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
- Chronic inflammation-related symptoms (joint pain, skin issues).
- Persistent Fatigue & Stress-Related Conditions
- Adrenal fatigue and burnout
- Sleep disturbances
- Chronic stress and anxiety impacting physical health.
- Personalized, Preventative Care
- Focus on long-term health optimization and disease prevention.
- Wellness plans based on genetics, lifestyle, and lab testing.
- Root-cause approach rather than symptom suppression.
Why I Chose Functional Medicine: My Journey
I am a family nurse practitioner with a background as an EMT, trauma nurse, and step-down ICU nurse. After eight years in a walk-in clinic, I grew frustrated with how often I saw patients return with unresolved symptoms despite being on multiple medications. I realized that I wasn’t truly helping them heal or prevent further decline.
The turning point for me was the rising number of children on prescription medications for conditions like ADHD, eczema, allergies, and obesity. I felt that something crucial was missing in conventional care. Functional medicine’s focus on prevention and treating the root cause resonated deeply with me, leading me to pursue this path.
Supporting Fertility and Endometriosis Through Functional Medicine
Fertility is one of my favorite areas to support. With fertility rates declining, optimizing a couple’s health before conception can significantly improve outcomes for both mother and child. Often, a diagnosis of “unexplained infertility” has an explanation—we just need to dig deeper.
I take a comprehensive approach, assessing hormone levels, gut health, inflammation, and nutrient status. Personalized nutrition, lifestyle modifications, and targeted supplements can make a substantial difference.
For endometriosis patients, managing estrogen dominance is crucial, but it’s equally important to address gut health and inflammation. Through diet, gut-healing protocols, and hormone regulation, we can alleviate symptoms and enhance fertility.
What to Look for in a Functional Medicine Practitioner
Choosing the right practitioner is essential. Here are some questions to consider:
- How do you identify the root causes of health issues?
- What conditions do you specialize in treating?
- What types of testing do you use?
- What is your background and training in functional medicine?
- Do you have experience treating patients with similar concerns?
- How do you stay updated on the latest research and treatments?
Finding a Functional Medicine Provider That Accepts TRICARE
Unfortunately, very few functional medicine providers accept insurance, including TRICARE. However, you can search for certified practitioners through the Institute of Functional Medicine.
It’s important to note that while certification can be a good indicator, it’s not everything. Some highly skilled practitioners may not hold specific certifications but are still experts in functional medicine principles. Make sure to ask about their training and experience to find the right fit.
TRICARE Coverage for Functional Medicine Services
I am a certified out-of-network provider for TRICARE. Here’s how it works:
- TRICARE Select: Likely requires a small cost share, depending on your deductible and catastrophic cap.
- TRICARE Prime: Requires a referral.
- Lab Work Coverage: Most blood work is covered. However, some functional tests may need to be paid upfront, with the option to submit a claim for reimbursement.
How to Work with Me:
I currently offer telehealth-only services, making it simple to schedule appointments from the comfort of your home. If you’re interested in exploring functional medicine, you can learn more about my services here.
Functional medicine offers a powerful, personalized approach to health that addresses the root causes of illness rather than just managing symptoms. Whether you’re struggling with gut health, hormonal imbalances, or chronic fatigue, functional medicine could provide the answers you’ve been searching for. By choosing the right practitioner and embracing a root-cause approach, you can take significant steps towards lasting health and well-being.
Meet Lindsey
Lindsey Foreman is a functional medicine nurse practitioner with over 15 years of experience in medicine and the founder of Lindsey Foreman Wellness. Passionate about helping women feel their best, she takes a root-cause approach to gut health, hormones, and fertility. When she’s not supporting her patients, you can find her soaking up the sunshine, chasing after her kids, or sneaking in a day date with her husband.
