Frequently Asked Questions
The hormone replacement therapy and hormone optimization programs at Method Health offer individualized courses of treatment designed to change the way patients think about taking care of themselves, inside and out. More than just treating symptoms, this includes disease prevention, improved quality, and extension of life.
The programs at Method Health prevent symptoms through use of natural bioidentical hormone optimization. Our medical providers strive to help patients improve the duration and overall quality of life.
Hormones regulate inflammation in the body, and inflammation is the root cause of many diseases, cardiovascular illness, arthritis, depression, stress, and more.*
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the hormone replacement therapy and hormone optimization programs at Method Health:
When should I consider hormone replacement therapy and hormone optimization?
Inflammation might be the key to fighting most, if not all, illness, pain and disease in the body. But oftentimes, it is difficult to see this inflammation occur. One of our ultimate goals is to improve hormones in a manner that helps the human body reduce disease-causing inflammation.
In general, your body’s natural hormones begin to decline after your mid-20s and hormone imbalance symptoms are frequently present by your mid-30s. This is when the inflammation process can start to visibly increase for adults, although most people really do not notice or pay attention to the warning signs until later in life. Men and women often start replacing hormones between the ages of 35 and 40. In order to counteract the inflammation, it’s best to not wait and start fighting back as soon as possible.
If you’ve been to your doctor and have been told that your levels are “normal,” that isn’t necessarily good news to you. “Optimal” levels fight disease AND make you feel better. Additionally, your doctor may not be testing all essential hormone levels. There’s more to your body than your thyroid, and there’s more to your thyroid than a TSH level.*
Is hormone replacement therapy safe? Why don’t traditional doctors prescribe bioidentical hormones?
Hormone replacement therapy at Method Health is safe.
Our medical providers understand the underlying science, research, and difference between synthetic and bioidentical hormones. Unlike other clinics, our medical providers ONLY prescribe bioidentical hormones to ensure the safety and health of our members.
Method Health physicians have utilized extensive resources to become experts in this field. Our medical providers have specialized knowledge in the field of hormone replacement, hormone optimization, and anti-aging medicine.*
Are bioidentical hormones regulated by the FDA?
The components of bioidentical hormones (estrogen, progesterone and testosterone) are approved for use by the FDA. However, each state has jurisdiction over pharmacies, not the FDA. Our compound pharmacists are using the highest quality practices and guidelines to ensure excellent quality assurance and member safety.*
Can I have bloodwork done at my own doctor’s office?
It is imperative that Method Health ensures the accuracy of specific hormone panels needed to prescribe the exact dosing particular to your body. For instance, many PCPs or endocrinologists do not test T3 levels (usually only T4) which are a more specific indicator of thyroid function, or lack thereof.*
Are there side effects of hormone replacement therapy and hormone optimization?
The medical providers at Method Health are extensively trained in order to monitor, minimize, and eliminate side effects from hormone replacement therapy and hormone optimization.
We utilize bioidentical hormones instead of synthetic hormones.
Some studies have shown synthetic hormones can lead to harmful side effects. This is why our medical providers avoid these and only use bioidentical hormones.
Because bioidentical hormones have the same molecular structure as the hormones made naturally in your body, there are relatively few side effects.
Our providers monitor and evaluate each member throughout the year, contributing to a very high success rate. We utilize a meticulous reporting system, Method Health Performance Profiles, that helps us and our members see proven results and track changes occurring within their bodies.*
How long does it take for the hormone optimization programs at Method Health to work?
The time it takes for programs to produce results can vary depending on a variety of unique factors based on each individual person, their genetics, and their lifestyle.
Patients often expect to see noticeable results within 3 to 6 months.
This time is needed to safely balance new hormone with existing hormones in the body. It is fairly common for medications to change frequently during this time.
Many patients see and feel results within the first month or sooner depending on their goals.*
Does insurance cover hormone replacement therapy and hormone optimization programs?
We are a private pay facility. The hormone replacement therapy and hormone optimization programs at Method Health are usually above and beyond the scope of most insurance plans.
The IRS allows Flex Spending Accounts for these services, and we can provide the proper documentation.