Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do you have questions about Arbor Vitae Holistic Medical Center or the membership model? You can view the questions and answers below or make a Meet & Greet appointment to discuss the practice and the model one-on-one.
What is functional medicine?
Functional medicine is an investigative process that addresses the underlying causes of disease, using a systems-oriented approach and engaging both patient and practitioner in a therapeutic partnership. Whereas conventional medicine asks, “What drug can we use to combat the symptoms of this disease?”, functional medicine asks, “Why do we have this problem in the first place, and how can we restore optimal function?”
Whether you are looking to optimize your wellness to prevent problems in the future or need to address a current health issue, the functional medicine process can help.
If you don't currently have any health concerns and are simply looking for a more holistic model of care for you or your family focused on prevention, see our Direct Primary Care page.
Getting In Touch
Current patients may contact the office via secure message on the patient portal, via the patient text number on the portal, or by calling the office at (803) 881-9990. If you need to leave a voicemail, your call will be returned as soon as possible by the next clinic day. Secure messages are checked daily and will be responded to as soon as possible. Please be aware that though we make every effort to answer messages the same day, providers are sometimes very busy and may not be able to respond right away. Regular clinic hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm for Shawnie and Tuesday, Thursday, Friday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm for Camden.
New patients can request an appointment via the website, via email (info@arborvitaemedical.com) or via the main office number at (803) 881-9990.
Care During Holidays and Vacations
Your provider does not provide care during holidays or scheduled time out of the office; however, another provider will be available for urgent needs during these times. Whenever possible, patients will be given advance notice of time away from the practice so that appointments can be scheduled accordingly. These dates will be listed on the website and on the patient portal.
Do you accept insurance?
As a program and membership-based clinic, we do not accept insurance. This allows us to practice unencumbered by the restrictions imposed by insurance companies, and provide the best and most comprehensive care possible.
Medication/Supplement Refills
Refills should be done during the office visit, and we will give enough refills until the next visit. When you are running low, please notify us at least 48 hours before running out of medication. We do not refill any medicines after hours (with exceptions for emergencies). Please clarify medication/supplement name, dose, and quantity at time of refill request.
Please message to request supplement refills 10 business days prior to need, as these will require time to order and ship. Provide the appropriate detailed information such as the name of the supplement(s), liquid or capsules, count, flavor, etc.
Can I use my insurance for labs?
Yes, in some cases, depending on the lab. Some labs accept and bill insurance and some do not. We utilize labs that will submit insurance for testing whenever possible.
Labs and Testing
All patients are responsible for lab charges that are not included in the membership fee. We are not responsible for the fees and insurance coverage of these labs. Please verify coverage before agreeing to or submitting the lab test.
What does it cost to be a patient (member)?
Membership fees are simple.
Please see Direct Primary Care and Functional Medicine pages for fees.
Late Appointments and No Shows
If a patient is more than 15 minutes late for an appointment, they will be asked to reschedule. We promise minimal waiting room time and prolonged visits because we value our patient's time; please value ours too. This is the only way we can ensure the delivery of a valuable office experience and prolonged visit times.
We understand life happens, and there may be an occasion when you have to miss an appointment. Please do your best to let us know before your appointment time. If a patient has a 2nd "no-show" visit at any point during their membership, they will be charged a $50.00 "no-show" fee and this will apply for all no-shows going forward. Again, we strive to provide accessible, affordable and attentive care to our patients so please respect these parameters. Consider the fact that if you do not show up for your appointment, there may have been another patient with an acute issue that could have been seen. Of course, we will give careful consideration to emergency issues.
What services are included in membership?
See "What we offer" pages for detailed breakdown of services.
Confidentiality
This clinic abides by federal privacy regulations and keeps your protected health information (PHI) confidential. Your PHI may be disclosed to plan your treatment or in determining eligibility for coverage. You have a right to review and receive a copy of the complete Notice of Privacy Practices which outlines the full policy.
What ages do you see?
We currently accept patients ages newborn and up for primary care, and 5 years and up for functional medicine.
Do you prescribe regular medications?
Yes, we prescribe regular medications when needed. Although our aim is to use natural treatments when possible, we value and utilize conventional medicine when appropriate.
What other services do you offer?
Acute care visits for illness or injury offered as availability allows for non-members for $99 once per calendar year.
Sports/camp/work physicals are offered once yearly for non-members for $79/visit.
We also have Reiki services available.
We offer FSM (Frequency Specific Microcurrent) for treatment of pain or injuries.
How do I know if AVH is the right choice for me?
We offer complimentary 15 minute consultations in which you can meet the provider and get all your questions answered before deciding to proceed with membership or book an appointment. We are a relationship-based practice, and as such want to ensure that we are a good fit before embarking on this journey of health together.