Frequently Asked Questions
F.A.Q.
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We let Dr. Roberts’ current patients answer this; take a look at her testimonial page, and you will quickly realize the many benefits of this approach. Although Dr. Roberts has a general practice and collaborates with her patients to treat all acute and chronic conditions, areas of specialty and passion include heart disease (such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol), diabetes, hormone imbalance, and obesity. She especially loves solving “people puzzles” and working with patients who have seen many specialists, have tried many treatments with no results, and feel discouraged and defeated by the lack of answers that they have received.
Here is just a brief list of conditions that can benefit from naturopathic medical treatment:
-Fatigue
-Heart disease and stroke
-Hypertension (high blood pressure)
-High cholesterol
-Diabetes
-Hypothyroidism
-Upper respiratory infections such as the cold or flu
-Skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis
-Gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, SIBO, heartburn, and inflammatory bowel disease
-Women’s health: infertility, menstrual irregularities, menopausal symptoms, hormone replacement
-Autoimmune diseases
-Addictions
-Medication tapering
-Anxiety and depression
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MD’s and ND’s have more in common than you might think. Both MD’s and ND’s are trained in conventional diagnosis and treatment of disease, and can function as primary care or specialty providers. Where naturopathic medicine differs is in its focus on discovering the root cause of disease, prevention of illness, individualized treatments, and commitment to work with your body’s natural healing ability. A naturopathic doctor takes into account all of your symptoms and medical history to develop a clear picture of the root of the problem, instead of merely masking individual symptoms. Many patients find that this approach rapidly leads to symptom reduction, overall improved health, more energy, less frequent illness, and a general feeling of wellness.
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Dr. Roberts endeavors to offer an individualized treatment plan to each of her patients. In a world of medical complexity, Dr. Roberts offers a refreshing approach that simplifies, clarifies, and reestablishes the foundation for short and long-term health.
Your personalized treatment plan may consist of any or all of the following:
-Therapeutic nutrition
-Lifestyle counseling
-Targeted nutritional supplementation
-Intravenous nutrient therapy
-Vitamin injections
-Bioidentical hormone replacement, including hormone pellet therapy
-Botanical medicine
-Pharmaceutical medications
-Minor surgery
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Naturopathic doctors complete a rigorous 4-year medical program at an accredited naturopathic school. They study pathology, conventional diagnosis and treatment, as well as receive specialized training in botanical medicine, clinical nutrition, intravenous nutrient therapy, counseling, and more. Prior to entering naturopathic medical school, a student must complete a 4-year undergraduate degree with premedical course requirements in biochemistry, anatomy, and physiology.
An additional requirement for many states, including Hawaii, is board licensure. To become a licensed naturopathic physician, a graduate must pass two intensive standardized exams that cover basic and clinical topics. Each state board has requirements for continuing education to ensure physicians stay up to date on clinical and evidence-based treatments.
You can learn more about naturopathic medical education at The American Association of Naturopathic Physicians.
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Dr. Roberts’ office staff will help you request copies of your medical records and labs so they are available for review during your first visit. Fill out your New Patient Packet prior to arrival at the clinic so that Dr. Roberts can review your health concerns and medical history. Please also bring any supplements you are taking. If you are going to seek insurance reimbursement, please familiarize yourself with your out-of-network coverage.
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During your one-hour initial appointment, you can expect Dr. Roberts to carefully listen to your medical problems and health goals. She will review your medical records and any recent labs you have had done, then will then develop an individualized treatment plan to help you achieve optimal health and provide comprehensive care that treats you and not just your symptoms.
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Early in Dr. Roberts’ practice, she realized she would not be able to deliver the highest quality of care that she is committed to delivering if she allowed insurance companies to dictate how she practiced medicine. She has since decided to opt out of the third party insurance payment model. This allows her to increase the amount of time spent with each patient, an integral component of her integrative and highly individualized medical model. This is part of Dr. Roberts’ commitment to providing solutions for all of your health challenges, no matter how chronic or complex they may be.
Payment in full is expected for services rendered on the day of your visit. We accept cash, checks, and major credit cards. Our office staff would be happy to make claim forms available to you, upon request, to submit to your insurance carrier for direct reimbursement, where applicable. Unfortunately we are not able to determine how much your particular insurance provider might reimburse you for services as there are so many different plans and they vary so much. We recommend that you call your specific insurance provider and ask if they have naturopathic (ND) coverage.
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Labs, imaging and pharmaceutical prescriptions that Dr. Roberts may recommend are generally covered by most insurance plans. Coverage for office visits varies by particular insurance plan and carrier. Please familiarize yourself with your plan’s coverage policy.
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Yes! Dr. Roberts does phone or skype appointments with her patients who live off island
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-Fatigue
-Athletic recovery and performance
-Infections (cold/flu, mononucleosis, pneumonia, hepatitis)
-Migraines
-Muscle cramps and spasm
-Dehydration
-Nutritional deficiency due to IBS, IBD, celiac disease, gastric bypass, or other cause
-Anemia
-Addiction and withdrawal symptoms
-Medication tapering
-Anxiety and depression
-Parkinson’s disease
IV nutrient therapy is a powerful therapy that can benefit many conditions. Ask Dr. Roberts if IV nutrient therapy is right for you.
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Digestion and absorption are bypassed, allowing the fastest delivery of nutrients to target tissues and greater bioavailability. This is especially important for people with compromised digestion, gastrointestinal disease, and poor absorption. In addition, some nutrients are irritating to the gastrointestinal tract in large amounts, but can be safely and comfortably administered into blood.
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Your treatment may last anywhere from 15 minutes to 2 hours. Some people use this time to rest and take a nap in our lazy boy recliner, others bring their laptops and do work, and some bring a book to read. In any case, we welcome you to enjoy the comfort of our IV suite during your treatment.
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No! It is perfect for athletes, anti-aging, maintaining optimal health, and preventing illness. It is a great way to boost your immune system prior to traveling/flying. It is also great for a midday pick me up and many enjoy the increase in energy they experience following the treatment.
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Intravenous therapy:
Nutrients are directly infused into a large vein
100% absorption
Allows higher doses to be given, which is not possible when taken orally
Treatment time ranges from 15 minutes to 2 hours
Intramuscular injections:
Nutrients are delivered into a large muscle
Quick — can administer in office in less than a minute
Please contact our office for our Menu of Vitamin Therapies.