Integrative Medicine
Integrative Medicine & Functional Medicine
Integrative Medicine and Functional Medicine are both approaches to healthcare that aim to address the root causes of illness and promote optimal wellness, but they have some differences in focus and methodology.
Integrative Medicine combines conventional Western medicine with complementary therapies and practices from other healing traditions. It emphasizes treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—rather than just the disease itself. This approach involves a partnership between the patient and healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan that may include a variety of interventions such as nutrition, acupuncture, massage, yoga, herbal medicine, and stress reduction techniques. Integrative medicine seeks to integrate the best of both conventional and alternative medicine to provide comprehensive care.
Functional Medicine is a systems-oriented approach to healthcare that focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying causes of disease, rather than just treating symptoms. It views the body as an interconnected system and seeks to understand how imbalances in one area can affect other areas of health. Functional medicine practitioners use advanced testing methods to assess a patient's unique biochemical and genetic makeup, as well as lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and stress levels. Treatment plans in Functional Medicine are highly individualized and may include dietary and lifestyle modifications, nutritional supplements, detoxification programs, and other therapies aimed at restoring balance and optimizing health.
Using both Integrative and Functional Medicine as a framework, together the provider and individual design a health journey to optimize mental and physical wellbeing.
Dr. Michelle Eckroth, MD | Integrative & Functional Medicine
Dr. Michelle Eckroth, MD, embarked on her medical career at Loma Linda University School of Medicine, followed by a Pediatric Residency at Dartmouth-Mary Hitchcock. However, it was a personal health crisis in 2015 that ignited her passion for understanding the fundamental causes of diseases and avenues for healing. This pivotal moment led her to pursue further education at the University of Arizona Integrative Medicine Fellowship and become a certified Functional Medicine provider through the Institute for Functional Medicine.
Combining her robust pediatric background with years of experience in integrative medicine, Dr. Eckroth is dedicated to guiding individuals towards vibrant physical and mental health. She empowers her clients to make mindful lifestyle choices, leveraging the healing power of real food alongside conventional and botanical therapies when necessary.
With a focus on gut health, gastrointestinal issues, thyroid disorders, stress management, weight management, fatigue, mental health, pediatrics, and mold toxin exposure, Dr. Eckroth offers comprehensive consultation and follow-up care. Her patient-centered approach caters to individuals from newborns to those up to 40 years old. As a specialist she does not serve as a PCP and requires all clients to already have their own PCP.
Dr. Eckroth’s heart finds solace in the serene beauty of Corvallis and the enchanting surroundings of the Willamette Valley, where every day feels like a breath of fresh air. As a proud resident of this vibrant community, she cherishes the simple joys of life, from exploring local treasures to savoring quiet moments in nature.
In her free time, you will find Michelle riding a tandem mountain bike with her husband on picturesque trails, creating unforgettable moments and embracing the thrill of adventure. Off the trails, you'll find her immersed in the harmonious melodies of the viola, as she plays alongside fellow musicians in the esteemed Willamette Valley Orchestra.
Michelle and her husband have two adult children that bring them joy and they are grateful for the time spent together creating cherished memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Her combination of board certifications in Pediatric Medicine, Integrative Medicine, and certification in Functional Medicine allows her to approach patient care from multiple perspectives, which can be especially beneficial for addressing complex health issues or providing holistic care for children. She sees children ranging from newborn to 18 years of age.
-
With her board certification in Integrative Medicine and certification as a Functional Medicine provider, Dr. Eckroth will consult with adults 18-40 years of age. For patients older than 40 years of age, Dr Eckroth recommends a Family Practice or an Internal Medicine provider board certified in Integrative Medicine and/or certified in Functional Medicine.
-
Yes she is contracting with Moda, Providence, Regence Blue Cross Blue Shield, Pacific Source, Cigna, Aetna, and First Choice Health.
Please note: We bill primary insurance only. For folks with secondary insurance coverage, you will be responsible for any copays or deductible based on your primary insurance coverage. We will provide you with a superbill and receipt for you to submit to your secondary insurer for reimbursement based on your particular policy.
-
To help make Integrative/Functional Medicine care accessible and affordable for her patients, Dr. Eckroth offers a cash payment only discount of 20% on request for those who may not have insurance coverage accepted by Two Rivers Integrative Health.
Unfortunately, Dr. Eckroth is unable to see patients with OHP or IHN health plans because cash payments are not an option.
-
A new patient appointment is 90 minutes. Follow up appointments are 60 minutes.
-
Dr. Eckroth reserves the right to dismiss a patient from the practice if they “no show” three of their appointments in the same calendar year. No shows will be charged $150 for their missed appointment.
-
We require 48 hours notice for any cancellations. If less than 48 hours is given there is a $50 fee. Any cancellations within 24 hours of the appointment will result in the missed appointment fee.
-
Dr. Eckroth is a specialist and unable to serve as a PCP. All patients are required to have their own PCP.
-
Dr. Eckroth's approach to reviewing new patient intake form demonstrates her commitment to ensuring that each patient receives the most appropriate care tailored to their needs. By personally reviewing intake forms before scheduling a new patient appointment she can assess whether her expertise in Integrative and Functional Medicine aligns with the patient's health goals and needs.
Dr. Eckroth offers a free 15-minute introductory appointment to briefly connect with a patient so they can determine if they are a good fit and if Integrative/Functional Medicine is the right path to pursue.
-
Dr. Eckroth's commitment to identifying and addressing the root causes of her patients' health concerns often requires some specialty labs and tests. By utilizing these results, she can gain deeper insights into the specific imbalances in their bodies, allowing for a more targeted and personalized treatment plan.
Dr. Eckroth informs patients of the costs and benefits associated with any specialty kits recommended for testing. This transparency empowers patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensures they understand the rationale behind each test. Additionally, Dr. Eckroth will work with patients who may have budgetary concerns.
If needed to help patients navigate their healthcare expenses more effectively, Dr. Eckroth can provide patients the necessary CPT codes for routine local laboratory tests and imaging tests allowing patients to proactively inquire about any potential costs they may be responsible for by contacting their health insurance.
-
Dr. Eckroth can order any recommended supplements during the appointment and patients may use the Two Rivers Integrative Health Fullscript account which offers a 15% discount on all items.
-
You can request specific pricing information through the contact us form and state in primary concern the desire for information on Dr. Eckroth’s fees.
-
Yes, but patient must be in the state of Oregon. Preference is in-person appointments. Telehealth appointments are useful when patients are at a significant distance from Corvallis or life events occurring which makes a telehealth appointment preferred.