FAQ

Yes. In fact, many of my patients prefer having their annual exam done by an ND, as we get to spend more clinic time answering any specific questions and going over nutrition, lifestyle and supplements, as well as ordering more comprehensive labwork then what is typically ordered with an MD visit. My patients leave feeling like they have their bases covered and confident in their preventative health care routine.

The one thing I can't do at the moment is insert IUDs or birth control implants. I CAN take IUDs out. If you need a new or replacement IUD, I will refer you to one of the gynecologists in the clinic.

In most cases, yes. You can pay for your visits, labs tests, and supplements with your HSA/FSA card. I can provide you with a medical necessity form if needed. If you're out-of-state, then I'm not your prescribing doctor, and I won't be able to give you a medical necessity form. You may be able to still pay for labs, etc with the card. This is will all depend on how strict your plan is.

Yes. My primary goal is to address nutrition and lifestyle to limit the need to prescribe. However, in certain instances, a prescription is the best medicine. For example, if a patient of mine is trying to get pregnant and we discover she has autoimmune thyroid, a thyroid hormone prescription is likely going to be the most helpful.

However, If you already work with a primary care provider and you're already on medication, the ongoing management of that medication is the responsibility of the prescribing physician.

I can't prescibe outside the state of Oregon.

Yes, we can work together remotely. Since I'm only licensed in Oregon, we will not establish a doctor/patient relationship, but rather a client/consultant relationship. The difference is that I can't diagnose or treat. I can guide you with recommendations, and all of my out-of-state clients find this invaluable to their health journey.

I graduated from a four-year, accredited medical school. This means I finished a Bachelor’s of Science first, then go to medical school. Once I finished medical school, I was required to complete a rigorous national board examination (NPLEX) to become licensed as a practicing physician (ND) in the state of Oregon. NDs complete an average of 224.50 credit hours in basic clinical sciences, 72 pharmacology hours, 250 hours of field observations, 84 weeks of clinical rotations etc. These hours are comparable to MDs and DOs.

During this time, I also completed additional coursework in the Master’s of Nutrition program and earned that degree with my doctorate.

In addition, I was selected for a competitive residency position under the supervision of Dr. Misty White. I completed a one-year residency in primary care.

Each year, NDs are required to complete 32 continuing education hours to continue renewing their license.

Yes! In fact, I recommend it. I work closely with your Reproductive Endocrinologist and there is a lot we can do to increase your chances of becoming pregnant and staying pregnant on the first try.

As soon as possible! The first few weeks of pregnancy is an important time to find out lab values such as thyroid hormone, vitamin D and iron. We will get you on optimal supplementation right from the beginning. Read the blog here to learn more.

The first trimester can be especially challenging physically. I work with you to find solutions that will help you function and even thrive through those first 12 weeks. Keep in mind I do not take place of a regular prenatal appointment with a midwife or ObGyn.