FAQs: Functional Medicine

What is Functional Medicine?

Functional Medicine is a holistic lens through which health is viewed. This medical paradigm of thinking & evaluation considers the whole being and the interconnectedness of our biologic systems.

It considers the spectrum of your life, including genetics, environment, relationships and factors often excluded from conventional medicine such as our relationship to Mother Nature, the effect of toxic stress, for example, from racism, trauma, access to quality food. It addresses the underlying causes of disease, using a systems-oriented approach and removes the hierarchy, engaging both patient and practitioner in a therapeutic partnership.

How do I start working with Astrid Monroe, FNP?

Partnership and success with an integrative & functional medicine approach calls for motivated engagement. It’s important that we are a good fit.

The first step in enrolling in our functional medicine practice is booking a Discover Call with Astrid. This 20-minute call is a chance for us to assess your health goals and readiness to optimize health.

The fee for this call results in a donation to Safespace Foundation, A Woman’s Way, and Southern Birth Justice Network.

What conditions does Astrid treat?

We support feminine health with integrative & functional medicine and specialize in partnering with people with PCOS, menstrual irregularities, uterine fibroids, Hashimoto’s, gestational diabetes, perimenopause/menopause symptoms, and in optimizing preconception well-being to support transgenerational health.

Does Temple Glow Wellness accept insurance?

Temple Glow Wellness is an integrative & functional medicine micro-practice. We do not currently accept insurance. All prices are transparent.

Many patients use their FSA or HSA account to pay for services. I will provide a properly coded ICD-10 visit worksheet and itemized bill so you can submit this for reimbursement.

Do you partner with in-network labs?

Yes, we partner with Quest for most lab testing.

Functional/specialty testing orders are supported through Rupa Health.

How important are supplements & herbs?

Astrid helps you navigate which supplements may (or may not) be helpful. While she does consider food sources and lifestyle changes first, many people require supplementation based on their genetics, digestion health status, or micronutrient deficiencies.

We provide you access to prescription quality supplements through our FullScript dispensary, where Astrid trusts the companies on formulary to be of highest purity & 3rd party quality certified. Fullscript’s storage and shipping practices are also safe. You get discounted pricing from MSRP through the dispensary. While there is no obligation to purchase supplements/herbs, this is Astrid’s personal trusted source.

Consider budgeting $50-300 for the cost of supplements during the first few months of health optimization.

Can I designate Astrid Monroe, FNP as my primary care provider?

No. As a member of TGW Functional Medicine practice, Astrid offers specialty consultations which are intended to augment the primary care you receive. My role in your healthcare team is to support you in reaching your wellness goals as an ongoing Functional Medicine consultant.

All patients must retain a primary care provider to handle ordering of important screening tests.