Functional Medicine
Meet Our Functional Medicine Doctor
Dr. Anna Dobracki, M.D., Ph.D., is an esteemed addition to The Oxford Center in Brighton, Michigan, bringing over 25 years of experience in allergy and immunology. Dr. Dobracki, a Board Certified pediatric and adult allergist and clinical immunologist, is a graduate of the University of Michigan Allergy and Immunology Fellowship. She is a Diplomate of the American Boad of Allergy & Immunology and a Fellow of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology (FAAAAI).
Since 2018, she has been dedicated to functional medicine, focusing on identifying and addressing the root causes of chronic allergic and immunologic disorders. This patient-centered approach not only targets symptom relief, but also emphasizes restoring overall health and vitality by leveraging advanced testing and treatment opportunities. Dr. Dobracki’s commitment to functional medicine reflects her dedication to offering integrative and comprehensive care, tailored to the unique needs of each patient.
What is Functional Medicine?
Functional Medicine is a modern approach to healthcare that focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of diseases, rather than simply treating symptoms. This patient-centric practice considers the unique genetic, biochemical, and lifestyle factors of each individual, providing a personalized strategy for treatment and wellness.
At its core, Functional Medicine believes in the interconnection of the body’s systems. It looks at how environmental, lifestyle, and genetic factors can impact long-term health and chronic disease. This approach often involves a detailed understanding of a patient’s personal health history, advanced diagnostic testing, and an integrative treatment plan that may include nutritional changes, lifestyle modifications, and therapeutic interventions.
Functional Medicine practitioners, like Dr. Anna Dobracki, work closely with patients to uncover the often-complex web of interactions in the patient’s history, physiology, and lifestyle that can lead to illness. The goal is to promote optimal health and not just the absence of disease, emphasizing prevention through nutrition, diet, and exercise; use of the latest laboratory testing; and prescribed combinations of drugs and/or botanical medicines, supplements, therapeutic diets, detoxification programs, or stress-management techniques.
In summary, Functional Medicine is an individualized, patient-centered, science-based approach that empowers patients and practitioners to work together to address the underlying causes of disease and promote optimal wellness.
Functional Medicine Services
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Comprehensive Health Assessments: Detailed evaluations of patients’ health histories, lifestyle factors, and environmental exposures to understand the root causes of health issues.
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Allergy Testing and Management: Advanced testing to identify allergies and sensitivities, followed by personalized management plans that may include dietary modifications, environmental changes, and medication.
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Immunology Services: Evaluation and treatment of immune system disorders, including autoimmune conditions, with a focus on restoring immune system balance.
- Functional Lab Testing: In-depth laboratory tests, including blood work and stool analysis, to gain comprehensive insights into patients’ health status.
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Detoxification Programs: Guided detoxification strategies to reduce the burden of toxins on the body, often including supplementation.
- Supplement and Herbal Therapy: Prescribing natural supplements and herbal remedies to support health and address specific health concerns.
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Pediatric and Adult Care: Services that cater to both children and adults, addressing age-specific health concerns and developmental health.
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Patient Education and Empowerment: Educating patients about their health conditions and treatment options, empowering them to take an active role in their health journey.
Testing We Offer
NutrEval & Metabolomix
- Provides targeted assessment of Oxidative Stress, Organic Acids, Amino Acids, and the option of additional Essential & Metabolic Acids, Toxic, and Nutrient Elements, plus Genomics
- Examines imbalances by functional categories: Malabsorption and Dysbiosis, Cellular Energy, Neurotransmitters, Vitamins, Toxin, and Detoxification.
- Evaluates direct and functional biomarkers for nutritional needs.
GI Effects Stool Testing
The GI Effects Comprehensive Stoll Profile provides data on inflammation and how well you digest and absorb the food you eat. Additionally, the profiles provide a detailed picture regarding the balance of yeast, parasites, and healthy and unhealthy bacteria that live in our large intestine. This bacterial population is called the microbiome. Improving the health of your gut may improve your overall health.
Sibo Breathing Test
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth )SIBO) is a condition that results in excessive bloating and gas, especially after meals, as well as other IBS symptoms.
Genova’s non-invasive SIBO breath test can detect the gases that are produced by the bacteria. Treatment often involves eliminating the overgrowth with antibiotics, herbal supplements, and/or a specialized diet.
Methylation Panel
- Methylation is needed to create DNA, RNA, and regulate gene expression.
- It helps make creatine, which is needed for skeletal muscle contraction.
- Methylation is involved in basic energy production, fat metabolism, immune responses, vascular health, and cell membrane repair.
- It produces and metabolizes neurotransmitters to regulate mood.
- Methylation also works to neutralize toxins and hormones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are appointments covered by insurance?
Yes, most appointments are covered by insurance. We accept various private insurance plans. However, we do not accept Medicaid, but we do accept Medicare.
Is the testing covered by insurance?
Insurance coverage varies for different types of testing. Common tests like allergy testing and bloodwork are usually covered by insurance. However, some specialized tests, such as stool analysis and food sensitivity testing, may not be covered.
What can I expect during my first visit?
Your first visit will be a comprehensive assessment where we discuss your health history, current symptoms, lifestyle, and any concerns you have. This visit helps us create a personalized care plan tailored to your unique health needs.
How does functional medicine differ from traditional medicine?
Functional medicine focuses on identifying and treating the root causes of diseases rather than just alleviating symptoms. It is a holistic approach that considers your entire health history, lifestyle, and environmental factors, offering personalized care.
How long does it take to see results with functional medicine?
The time frame for seeing results can vary depending on the individual and their specific health concerns. Some patients notice improvements relatively quickly, while others may require a longer-term approach. We focus on sustainable, long-term health improvements.
Do you offer virtual consultations?
Yes, we offer virtual consultations to provide accessible care to patients who cannot visit our clinic in person. This allows for flexibility and convenience in managing your health.
What kind of support can I expect between appointments?
We provide ongoing support between appointments. This may include follow-up calls, email support, and adjustments to your treatment plan as needed to ensure you are on the right track towards your health goals.