Question 1

What is the process for an Integrative Medicine Appointment?

Accepted Answer

For new patients seeking consultation with Dr. Ravi, the following process is in place:

Booking the Initial Consultation: 
New patients can schedule their initial consultation by booking online or by contacting the clinic directly. 
The initial consultation is with our Health Coach and lasts for 1 hour and is priced at $150.

Pre-Consultation Questionnaire: 
Prior to the initial consult, new patients will receive a comprehensive questionnaire to fill out. This questionnaire typically takes about 5-10 minutes to complete and is very useful in giving Leah and Dr Ravi background information in understanding your health background and tailor your care.

During the Initial Consultation: 
The initial consultation will be with Leah, our health coach, she will take a deep dive into your lifestyle history, nutrition, movement, sleep and stress management. Based on this, she will provide personalised guidance on diet and lifestyle changes to support your health coals. 
You will also receive blood pathology request form from Dr Ravi, which we recommend completing after implementing Leah's recommendations.

Case Review Appointment (Approximately 8-12 Weeks Later): 
It is advisable to schedule a case review appointment with Dr. Ravi, typically around 8-12 weeks after the initial consultation. 
During this review, Dr. Ravi will conduct a thorough analysis of any test results, assess any changes in your health since the initial consultation with Leah, and address any questions or concerns you may have. 
A comprehensive treatment plan will be developed during this appointment, which will again be emailed to you. This plan may include further dietary and lifestyle guidance and, if necessary, specific treatments involving supplements or medications.

Question 2

What is Functional/Integrative Medicine?

Accepted Answer

Functional and integrative medicine are patient-centered approaches to healthcare that focus on holistic well-being and identifying root causes of illness. Functional medicine emphasises personalised care, systems biology, and nutrition, often incorporating alternative therapies. Integrative medicine combines conventional and complementary treatments, prioritising evidence-based care, a collaborative healthcare team, and patient preferences. Both approaches aim to improve overall health and well-being.

Question 3

How often will I need to visit you?

Accepted Answer

The two initial visits are about 8-12 weeks apart

Then follow up depends on results/progress, this could be yearly for an annual health check or 3-6 monthly depending on any follow up.

In some cases where we are working on specific illnesses and treatments more frequent appointments may be required.

You are welcome to book as often as you please if you’d like to go through anything specific.

Question 4

What testing do you do?

Accepted Answer

As a baseline everyone has some blood tests requested. These are generally very comprehensive and will check metabolic health markers as a minimum, Additional blood testing is also ordered on a case-by-case bases, for example hormone testing.

Dr Ravi will also request additional functional tests through credible laboratories including, but not limited to, urine analysis for organic acids or dried urine hormone (DUTCH) testing, stool testing, breath testing for overgrowth, hair testing for heavy metals and mineral analysis etc.

Question 5

Are there any extra fees regarding testing?

Accepted Answer

Blood Testing Under Medicare: 
Blood testing covered by Medicare is typically free for those who meet the eligibility criteria and have Medicare coverage.

However, there may be some specific blood tests that are not eligible under Medicare due to certain restrictions, and these will incur an additional out-of-pocket cost, this can range from $50-$400 depending on what is ordered.

Functional Testing: 
Functional testing, which often involves specialized assessments beyond standard blood tests, is conducted privately and is not covered by Medicare.

The cost for functional testing can vary widely, ranging from $100 to over $500 per test.

It's important to note that functional testing is not compulsory and can be tailored to your budget and specific healthcare needs.

Dr. Ravi can discuss the available testing options with you, taking into consideration your financial preferences and healthcare goals.

Question 6

What do you treat?

Accepted Answer

Dr. Ravi and the team treat a broad spectrum of health issues, including, but not limited to, fatigue, autoimmune diseases, hormonal imbalances, gut problems, skin conditions, joint pains, preventative health measures, wellness optimisation, and heart disease. However, she does not specifically specialise in vector-borne diseases or cancer treatment. Dr. Ravi is dedicated to supporting individuals dealing with chronic illnesses, offering a holistic and patient-centered approach to their healthcare needs

Question 7

Do you treat children?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Dr Ravi is more than happy to see patients of all ages and has experience in optimising diet and lifestyle for children.

Question 8

How is Foundations Clinic different to a regular General Practitioner?

Accepted Answer

Dr. Ravi is a fully qualified General Practitioner (GP) who can address typical health concerns that you would bring to a GP. However, her appointment and clinic structure do not accommodate routine GP services like dressings and pap smears. For routine matters such as injuries, acute infections and care plans, it is advisable to maintain a regular relationship with your primary GP.

Dr. Ravi's approach is more geared toward a bigger picture and a preventative perspective. The optimal strategy is to have her collaborate with your regular GP, allowing for a comprehensive approach to your healthcare needs. This way, you can benefit from both immediate, specialised care when necessary and a more holistic, preventative approach to your overall well-being.

Question 9

What Qualifications and extra training does Dr Ravi have?

Accepted Answer

Dr. Ravi obtained her medical degree (MBBS) and a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in the United Kingdom, graduating from Imperial College London in 2008. Following this, she pursued further specialisation in general practice by completing a Fellowship with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). Additionally, she expanded her expertise by earning a diploma in child health.

In 2021, Dr. Ravi took her commitment to a holistic approach to healthcare a step further by completing the ADAPT functional medicine training program through the Kresser Institute. Recently, she completed a Masters in Integrative Medicine at Southern Cross University. Her aspiration is to further develop her expertise in this field, with the goal of achieving a fellowship with the Australasian Integrative Medicine Association (AIMA).

Frequently Asked Questions