Twenty-five years ago, we started a large integrative and functional medicine clinic in the Midwest, typically not a place where such a clinic could succeed. Physicians in adjoining buildings took bets as to how long we would last. Today they are gone, and we are thriving. We have averaged over 30,000 patient visits per year. We now have ten MDs, three chiropractors, 2 dietitians and a host of practitioners working here successfully, as well as an accredited fellowship program. In this blog I want to share tips with you on how to build a sustainable functional medicine practice. From engaging patients to continuing education for clinicians, the journey can be fraught with challenges. This is where the power of a membership program can make a transformative difference. By offering comprehensive patient education materials, clinician medical education, and practice promotional assets, you can lay the foundation for a thriving and resilient practice.

 

Understanding the Need for a Sustainable Functional Medicine Practice

The Rising Demand for Functional Medicine

In today’s healthcare landscape, functional medicine is more than a trend—it’s a growing movement towards holistic and personalized patient care. This surge in popularity is increasing as patients seek personalized, root-cause approaches to health. This rising demand highlights the necessity for practitioners to establish practices that are not only effective but also sustainable. To meet this demand, practices must adapt and evolve, ensuring they can provide consistent, high-quality care while maintaining operational stability.

Challenges in Establishing a Functional Medicine Practice

Setting up a successful functional medicine practice is not without its challenges. Practitioners often grapple with:

  • Patient Engagement: Keeping patients actively involved in their own care.
  • Clinician Education: Ensuring that all team members are up-to-date with the latest advancements and best practices.
  • Effective Marketing: Developing strategies to reach and attract patients in a competitive marketplace.

 

The Elements of Practice Sustainability

Very few physicians seem to understand that they are in the SERVICE INDUSTRY. It is all very well to tell patients you are looking for root causes, but you need to be available, to make accurate diagnoses and show good clinical acumen, and then to be able to understand and explain all patient options to them. Once this is done, the patient needs to come out feeling satisfied. It is this concept of added value that makes patients want to come back.

In addition, the following will aid you in building your practice, and retaining your patients:

Patient Education Materials

Investing in patient education materials can significantly boost engagement and comprehension. These resources empower patients with knowledge about their conditions, treatment options, and wellness strategies, fostering a collaborative environment where patients are more invested in their health outcomes.

Clinician Medical Education

Ongoing medical education is vital for clinicians to stay abreast of new developments in functional medicine. Access to high-quality educational resources helps practitioners enhance their skills, leading to improved patient care and outcomes. Regular updates and training ensure that your team remains knowledgeable and confident in their approach.

Practice Promotional Assets

Effective promotional assets are key to expanding your practice’s reach. Well-crafted marketing materials can help in attracting new patients, building your practice’s reputation, and retaining existing clients. Leveraging these assets strategically can amplify your practice’s visibility and credibility.

 

Solutions to Common Challenges in Establishing/Building a Practice

Integrating Patient Education into Your Practice

To make patient education a seamless part of your practice, start by incorporating educational materials into patient consultations. Provide handouts, access to online resources, and offer educational workshops. Follow up with patients to address any questions and reinforce their learning, creating a supportive and informative care environment.

Enhancing Clinician Skills through Education

Utilize available educational resources to keep your team’s skills sharp. Encourage participation in webinars, workshops, and courses that focus on the latest functional medicine techniques and research. This investment in your clinicians’ education translates into better care for your patients and a more competent, confident practice.

Leveraging Promotional Assets for Growth

Deploy promotional materials strategically across various channels—such as social media, your website, and community events—to reach potential patients. Tailor your marketing efforts to highlight the unique benefits of your practice, showcase patient success stories, and communicate your commitment to comprehensive, personalized care.

Case Studies or Success Stories

Real-Life Examples of Success

Patients are often happy to share their success stories. They may allow you to use their names with permission or prefer just to use their stories. These stories are often powerful ways to influence other patients to take steps away from illness, and toward wellbeing.

WHY LMRC?

The Lifestyle Matrix Resource Center has been studying this problem for years. They know when, where and how to help. I strongly advise you to partner with them in order to create a successful clinic. They will do a personalized practice assessment, identify clinical gaps and help you identify a strategy for success. Their staff will keep you accountable while providing ongoing learning and introduce you to a supportive functional medicine community.

Conclusion

Building a sustainable functional medicine practice may seem like a daunting task. It involves addressing various challenges, from patient engagement to clinician education and marketing. By leveraging LMRC assets—such as patient education materials, clinician medical education, and practice promotional tools—you can overcome these hurdles and set your practice on a path to success. Embrace these resources to strengthen your practice and better serve your patients. I can tell you personally... they work!


To explore how LMRC assets can support your journey to a sustainable and successful functional medicine practice. By integrating these tools into your strategy, you can enhance patient care, empower your team, and grow your practice effectively. LMRC can also help you with Visual Aids… adding charts or infographics to illustrate the impact of patient education and clinician training.