How Is Functional Medicine Different from Most GP Appointments?

An Experience That Puts You First

True wellbeing often starts with feeling truly heard. Many people find themselves wanting a more attentive approach to their health with time to share their story, ask questions, and look beyond surface-level symptoms. This is where functional medicine stands apart, placing you and your unique needs at the centre of every conversation.

One of the most noticeable differences is the time and care given to your experience. While most GP visits are brief, functional medicine appointments often last an hour or more. There is space for genuine conversation, where your Functional Medical Doctors listens closely and builds a detailed picture of your health history, daily life, environment, and family background. Every aspect of your story is considered, and you are encouraged to share what matters most to you.

Looking Beyond Symptoms

Traditional GP care is invaluable for acute problems and emergencies. Yet, it can sometimes focus on addressing symptoms as quickly as possible, relying on standard tests and routine treatments. Functional medicine offers a broader perspective. Functional Medical Doctors are trained to ask not only “what is happening?” but “why is this happening?” Using advanced diagnostics and a holistic lens, they seek to uncover the root causes of illness, recognising that genetics, nutrition, stress, sleep, and emotional wellbeing all play a role in your overall health. As Dr Mayoni Gooneratne describes it, “We see every symptom and sign from a cell-up perspective. Rather than just asking what you can take to fix it, we ask what has gone wrong and where.”

Personalised Care

Care in functional medicine is always tailored around you. No two health journeys are the same. Your care plan is designed to reflect your personal history, values, and goals, which may include recommendations for nutrition, movement, sleep, stress management, and, where appropriate, supplements. The PHC Method® blends the latest in medical science with holistic therapies, ensuring your plan nurtures both body and mind. You are invited to play an active role in shaping your health, and your preferences are always respected. At every stage, Functional Medical Doctors are there to educate, encourage, and empower you to make meaningful changes.

A key difference is the use of advanced and comprehensive testing. GP care typically relies on standard laboratory results and imaging, which are essential for immediate diagnosis and acute care. Functional medicine looks deeper, using in-depth lab work, genetic analysis, and functional assessments. These help to reveal imbalances or early warning signs that might not appear in routine testing, supporting care that is more precise and proactive.

Supporting the Whole Person

At the core of functional medicine is a truly person-centred philosophy. Your values, comfort, and preferences guide every decision. The experience is collaborative, and family or loved ones can be involved if you wish. Functional Medical Doctors consider your emotional and social wellbeing alongside your physical health, and aim to support you as a whole person, not just a set of symptoms.

This approach is especially well suited to people navigating complex or ongoing health concerns. Functional medicine can support a wide variety of needs, including autoimmune conditions like Addison’s Disease or Lupus; cardiovascular health issues such as high blood pressure and cholesterol; digestive and gut health problems from IBS and Crohn’s to food sensitivities; hormonal and women’s health needs including endometriosis and thyroid disorders; as well as men’s health, mental health, metabolic, neurological, skin, sleep, and fatigue conditions. Every care plan is thoughtfully matched to the individual, and guidance is always available if you have questions about your specific situation.

A More Complete Approach to Health

Functional medicine and conventional healthcare each bring their own strengths. While conventional medicine is essential for acute and urgent needs, functional medicine excels at addressing chronic concerns, prevention, and long-term wellbeing. By combining both approaches, you receive immediate relief and evidence-based treatments when needed, alongside in-depth, root-cause analysis and personalised lifestyle support for ongoing health.

This integrated, collaborative model where doctors and Functional Medical Doctors work together with mutual respect and open communication, often leads to better management of chronic conditions, higher patient satisfaction, and truly comprehensive care.

At the heart of your experience is the PHC Method®: a unique system aligning ten key elements, from nutrition and detoxification to mindset, emotional health, and ancient therapies. This approach respects the interconnectedness of body and mind, helping you move towards a longer, healthier, and more fulfilling life. As Dr Mayoni puts it, “We are here with you for the long distance, not just the sprint.”

If you’re looking for a new standard of care, where your story and goals are truly heard, functional medicine may be the right step for you.

Enquire now to start your journey to better health.