Frequently asked questions
These are some of our frequently asked questions at our clinic. If you have any other questions feel free to contact us.
Contact usWhat is a Wellness Modality?
These methods have been successful in treating a wide range of conditions, including mental health concerns, chronic conditions, and trauma-related issues. Please note that the specific treatment methods used may vary depending on the individual patient’s needs and health conditions. If you have any specific questions about these treatment methods or if you are interested in scheduling an appointment with Dr. Bransteter, reach out to A Better Life Naturopathic Healthcare directly. We will be able to provide the most accurate and detailed information.
Do you accept insurance?
A Better Life Naturopathic Healthcare does not file claims with any insurance carriers. This is because insurance can often influence the treatment you receive and the amount of time you can spend with a provider. Our focus is on providing you with the best possible care, free from the constraints of insurance. Additionally, contracts with insurance carriers incur additional costs for the clinic. To keep our prices affordable, we do not contract with insurance carriers or insurance clearinghouses.
Upon request, we can provide you with the necessary paperwork to submit to your insurance carrier, with the exception of Medicare. We strongly encourage you to submit this Superbill to your insurance provider.
If reimbursement is crucial to you, we recommend that you contact your insurance provider prior to your first visit to determine if there is any coverage for the visit(s).
Complementary Medicine, Alternative Medicine, Holistic Medicine, Integrative Medicine, and Functional Medicine. Which one describes your practice?
Although these terms are often used interchangeably, they represent distinct forms of medical practice:
- Complementary Medicine: Refers to treatments used alongside conventional medicine, such as those from a Medical Doctor.
- Integrative Medicine: A holistic approach that combines conventional medical treatments with complementary therapies that are safe and effective.
- Functional Medicine: Focuses on identifying and addressing the root cause of disease, not just the symptoms. It involves understanding each patient’s genetic, biochemical, and lifestyle factors through extensive laboratory testing.
- Holistic Medicine: Encompasses the assessment and care of the whole person, considering the interactions between mind, body, and spirit. It is often summarized as “Treating the Whole Person.”
- Alternative Medicine: Applied when treatments like acupuncture, biofeedback, guided meditation, massage, dietary supplements, and energy medicine such as Reiki are used instead of conventional medicine.
A Better Life Naturopathic Healthcare primarily focuses on a naturopathic system known as “Nature Cure,” which aligns with the principle that self-healing is achieved through simple living. Our unique healthcare system incorporates complementary, integrative, functional, holistic, and alternative medical practices. Above all, our providers use evidence-based treatments and offer client-focused, trauma-informed care for all clients.
What type of treatments can I expect?
During your Wellness Strategy Session your individualized treatment plan will be discussed. Depending on your specific needs the following Wellness Modalities may be recommended.
- Lifestyle Management: Tackling sleep deprivation, stress, poor diet, and burnout to support both physical and mental wellbeing.
- Herbal Medicine: Leveraging the healing power of nature with plant-based remedies scientifically proven to address health concerns.
- Mind-Body Therapy©: Employing mindfulness and gentle bodywork to treat conditions holistically, nurturing both mental and physical health.
- Hydrotherapy: Utilizing the ancient and effective practice of water therapy for prevention and treatment.
- Homeopathic Healing: Following the principles established by Samuel Hahnemann to provide relief for various ailments.
What Should I Bring for the First Visit?
Please bring your most recent blood work and/or imaging results, along with a list of all supplements and medications that you are currently taking. Ensure to complete all onboarding paperwork through the Patient Portal at least two days before your Comprehensive Wellness Evaluation (New Client Visit). Failure to sign in to the Patient Portal and complete all paperwork will result in the rescheduling of your appointment. The onboarding process includes an extensive Intake Questionnaire that asks thoughtful questions. Please take your time and be as honest and open as possible when completing it.
What Can I Expect at my First Visit?
Your initial Comprehensive Wellness Evaluation visit will likely be longer than what you may have previously experienced. This is because we are committed to understanding your unique health journey. We will ask detailed questions about your health history, your occupation, and your dietary habits, among others things.
Diagnostic Tests
We may order laboratory tests or imaging studies, or request medical records from your current or previous doctors and specialists, to gain a comprehensive understanding of your health status.
Vital Signs Check
During your visit, we will also check your vital signs assess your physical health.
Follow-up Visit
A follow-up visit called a Wellness Strategy Session will be scheduled to discuss our assessment findings. This is an integral part of your care plan, ensuring we are on the right track with your wellness goals.
What if I am taking prescription medications?
If you are taking prescription medication, it’s crucial to inform your naturopathic doctor. Naturopathic treatments can complement your existing treatment plan, but it’s essential to prevent any potential interactions between your prescription medication and the natural substances used in naturopathic medicine. Your naturopathic doctor will investigate any possible interactions and will prescribe only those substances that are safe and effective alongside your current treatment plan. Naturopathic doctors collaborate with your prescribing physician to ensure a safe and effective integrated approach to your healthcare. Always notify your healthcare provider when you start using supplements or naturopathic treatments.
What kind of medication do you prescribe?
In the state of Kansas, Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) are limited in their scope of practice. They are not allowed, currently, to perform surgery, practice obstetrics, administer ionizing radiation, or prescribe, dispense, or administer any controlled substances.
However, they are permitted to prescribe, dispense, or administer prescription-only drugs that are listed on the naturopathic formulary adopted by the Kansas State Board of Healing Arts. This formulary includes food, food extracts, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, whole gland thyroid, botanicals, homeopathic preparations, nonprescription drugs, plant substances that are not designated as prescription drugs or controlled substances, and topical drugs.
It’s important to note that the specifics of what a Naturopathic Doctor can prescribe may vary and are subject to the regulations set by the Kansas State Board of Healing Arts and may change.
Can you order labs or imaging?
Yes, at A Better Life Naturopathic Healthcare, PA, we can order laboratory tests and imaging studies as part of our comprehensive care approach. These diagnostic tools help us understand your health condition better and guide us in creating a personalized treatment plan.
Will you work with my other healthcare providers?
Absolutely! At A Better Life Naturopathic Healthcare, PA, we believe in a collaborative approach to healthcare. We are more than willing to work with other healthcare providers. Our goal is to ensure that our clients receive the most comprehensive care possible. We can coordinate with your existing healthcare team to integrate naturopathic practices into your overall healthcare plan. This collaborative approach allows us to provide holistic care that addresses all aspects of your health and well-being. Please note that we will need your consent to share information with your other healthcare providers to ensure privacy and confidentiality.
Is Naturopathic Medicine cost effective?
The financial benefits of naturopathic medicine include:
- Cost-Effective Care: Naturopathic medicine is often less expensive than conventional treatments and focuses on prevention and wellness.
- Long-Term Savings: It has been shown to be cost-effective for long-term and chronic outcomes, especially for individuals with higher disease burdens.
- Healthcare System Impact: Utilizing naturopathic medicine can lead to a 26% reduction in healthcare costs and a $6 return for every $1 invested in corporate health management programs.
Reduced Medical Costs: Many naturopathic treatments incur no cost or are significantly cheaper than those in conventional medicine.
How will Naturopathic Medicine benefit me?
Naturopathic medicine can offer a range of benefits, tailored to your unique health needs and goals:
- Holistic Primary Care: As a form of primary care, naturopathic medicine doesn’t just treat symptoms. It looks at your entire health picture—physical, mental, and emotional—to understand and address the root causes of health issues.
- Mental Health Support: Our mental health supportive care can help manage stress, improve sleep, optimize diet, and enhance overall mental well-being. We use a variety of techniques, including mindfulness practices and lifestyle counseling.
- Substance Use and Trauma Recovery: We offer compassionate and effective support for those dealing with substance use and/or trauma and PTSD. Our recovery services are designed to help you heal in a safe and supportive environment.
- Naturopathic Urgent Care: For acute health concerns, our naturopathic urgent care provides immediate, natural care options. This ensures you receive the care you need when you need it most.
In essence, naturopathic medicine at A Better Life Naturopathic Healthcare, PA is about empowering you to take control of your health and well-being. We work closely with you and your current healthcare team to integrate naturopathic practices into your healthcare regime, leading to improved overall health. Whether you’re dealing with a chronic condition, seeking preventive care, or navigating mental health challenges, we’re here to support you on your health journey.
What is Naturopathic Medicine and what do Naturopathic Medicine Doctors do?
Naturopathic Medicine, originating in 19th-century Europe, combines traditional practices with scientific advances. Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are general practitioners who diagnose, treat, and manage medical conditions. They focus on prevention and overall well-being, using various strategies including diet changes, stress reduction, herbs, detoxification protocols, bodywork, joint manipulation, and lifestyle counseling.
NDs undergo a 4-year, professional-level education accredited by the U.S. Department of Education. Most U.S. states require NDs to pass the NPLEX licensing examination and complete continuing education requirements. Always ask to see a practitioner’s license when seeking Complementary, Alternative, or Naturopathic care.
All practitioners at A Better Life Naturopathic Healthcare, PA are licensed NDs.
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