Obesity is a global health crisis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It's not just about excess weight. It's a complex medical condition linked to numerous health risks including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, chronic pain, and certain types of cancer. Traditional methods like diet and exercise are essential, but for many, they are not enough to achieve and maintain significant weight loss. This is where GLP-1 medications such as Mounjaro, Ozempic, Semaglutide, and ZepBound come into play, offering new hope and better outcomes.
I've never seen medications with this much potential to change people's lives for the long term and for the better. I worked in weight loss surgery for seven years and these drugs are a breakthrough.
Tim Pickett, PA-C, founder of KindlyMD
The FDA recently approved GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) receptor agonists, a class of injectable medications originally approved to manage blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes patients, to help people lose weight. Medications like Mounjaro (tirzepatide), Ozempic (semaglutide), and the newer ZepBound are some of the fastest-growing medications in the U.S.
GLP-1 medications mimic the action of the natural hormone GLP-1, released in response to eating. These drugs enhance insulin secretion, suppress glucagon production, and slow gastric emptying. They basically slow down the GI system so you can't eat as much. This results in a decrease in appetite and an increase in feeling full, which leads to significant weight loss.
GLP-1 medications:
Extensive clinical trials have been done on GLP-1 medications in weight management. For instance, studies on 2,500 obese adults who took 5mg or more of Mounjaro showed that participants lost up to 15-20% of their body weight. Similar results have been observed with Ozempic and other GLP-1 medications, making them a powerful tool against obesity.
Recently, FDA approved GLP-1 medications like Mounjaro to treat obesity in patients with a BMI over 27 with at least one weight-related health condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. This marks a significant shift toward recognizing these medications as a primary treatment for weight management. This does not mean your insurance will pay for the drug, however. It does mean that insurance will cover the medical management of the medications (visits, labs, etc.) while you pay for the medication out of pocket.
Only incorporate GLP-1 medications into a weight loss program under medical supervision. It involves a comprehensive approach that includes dietary changes, physical activity, and regular monitoring of health parameters. At KindlyMD, our healthcare providers offer guidance on the optimal use of these medications, tailor them to your individual health needs and goals, and integrate them into a holistic approach to healthcare. We practice the MEANS model of weight management: Medical, Emotional, Activity, Nutrition, Sleep.
Each GLP-1 medication has its own unique profile
Like all medications, GLP-1 receptor agonists come with potential side effects. Common ones include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. Rare but serious side effects can also occur, so patients should work closely with their healthcare providers during treatment.
Our case studies show that real-world use of GLP-1 medications combined with integrated diet and physical activity guidance, can lead to life-changing weight loss and health improvements. Patients can report not only reduced body weight but also improved overall health markers, including lower blood pressure, improved cholesterol, and reduced prescription medications for related conditions. Even more exciting is the mental health gains patients see with the positive change. Our integrated approach helps paitents make the change long-term and lasting.
The approval of GLP-1 medications for weight loss is a watershed moment in the management of obesity. With their ability to significantly reduce weight and improve metabolic health, these drugs represent a paradigm shift in the treatment of a condition that has long been challenging to manage effectively. As research continues and more long-term data becomes available, GLP-1 medications are set to become a cornerstone of obesity management, providing hope to those who have struggled with weight loss for years.
If you are someone you know strugges with weight they just cannot seem to lose, give us a call at 801-851-5554 or email hello@kindlymd.com and our team can schedule a no-risk, no-cost consultation with a weight loss provider.
In the fast-paced world we live in, it's easy to overlook one of the most basic yet essential components of good health: sleep. Often overshadowed by busy schedules, deadlines, and responsibilities, the importance of quality sleep cannot be stressed enough. Beyond the feeling of refreshed energy in the morning, sleep plays a profound role in maintaining our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. In this article, we'll delve into the scientific underpinnings that highlight the crucial relationship between sleep and overall health, underlining the need to prioritize restful slumber for a happier and healthier life.
Research has consistently shown that sleep is far more than a passive state of rest. It's a dynamic process during which the body engages in vital repair and regeneration. The body's cellular repair mechanisms are most active during deep sleep, contributing to the healing and restoration of various systems. During these precious hours, the brain clears out waste products that accumulate throughout the day, bolstering cognitive function and memory retention.
Moreover, sleep has a profound impact on our immune system. Studies have indicated that individuals who consistently experience sufficient sleep are better equipped to fend off infections and illnesses. Sleep strengthens immune responses, enabling the body to better identify and neutralize threats. This connection has become especially relevant in recent times, emphasizing sleep's role in maintaining robust health in the face of global health challenges.
Beyond its physiological benefits, sleep has a deep-seated impact on mental health. Inadequate sleep has been linked to heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. The relationship between sleep and mental well-being is reciprocal: poor sleep can contribute to the development of mental health issues, while mental health conditions can disrupt sleep patterns. This intricate interplay underscores the necessity of nurturing a healthy sleep routine to support emotional resilience and cognitive function.
Cultivating a compassionate approach to self-care involves recognizing the importance of sleep in maintaining a balanced and vibrant life. Just as we wouldn't neglect our nutritional needs or physical activity, we should not neglect our sleep patterns. Prioritizing sleep doesn't mean merely aiming for a certain number of hours, but also embracing practices that promote restful sleep:
- Establish a Sleep Routine: Regular sleep times help regulate your body's internal clock, enhancing the quality and consistency of your sleep.
- Create a Soothing Sleep Environment: A cool, dark, and quiet room sets the stage for deep slumber. Consider investing in a comfortable mattress and pillows for optimal comfort.
- Limit Screen Time Before Bed: The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. Aim for screen-free activities an hour before bed.
- Mindful Relaxation: Engage in calming activities such as reading, meditation, or gentle stretches to signal to your body that it's time to wind down.
As we navigate the intricate tapestry of modern life, it's imperative to remember that sleep is not a luxury. It's a necessity for a resilient and thriving existence. By recognizing the profound influence sleep exerts on our physical health, mental well-being, and emotional equilibrium, we empower ourselves to make informed choices that honor our need for rest. In this journey towards holistic wellness, let us embrace the gift of sleep with compassion, understanding that each night's rest is an opportunity to nurture our greatest asset: ourselves. The care team at KindlyMD can help you find traditional and alternative sleep treatments to kickstart your journey to better sleep — schedule today.
In the pursuit of improved healthcare and holistic well-being, the medical community is increasingly recognizing the importance of reducing opioid and harsh prescription medication usage. As a healthcare company committed to fostering health, vitality, and longevity, we are excited to explore the remarkable benefits that come with this positive shift. In this article, we'll delve into how reducing opioids and adopting alternative approaches can lead to better outcomes for individuals seeking relief from pain and discomfort.
1. Enhanced Pain Management
Pain relief is a crucial aspect of healthcare, and there's a growing realization that relying solely on opioids and harsh prescription medications might not always be the best solution. By exploring alternative methods such as physical therapy, Medical Cannabis, and mindfulness practices, individuals can experience pain relief that addresses the root causes, rather than masking the symptoms temporarily. These approaches empower patients to manage their pain in a way that aligns with their overall well-being.
2. Minimized Risk of Dependency
One of the most significant concerns surrounding opioid usage is the potential for dependency and addiction. By reducing opioids and opting for non-opioid pain management strategies, individuals can significantly lower their risk of falling into the trap of addiction. This shift not only benefits the patient but also contributes to creating a healthier society at large.
3. Improved Mental Health
Opioid medications can have a notable impact on mental health, potentially leading to mood swings, depression, and anxiety. By embracing alternative methods like cognitive-behavioral therapy and meditation, individuals can manage pain while maintaining their emotional equilibrium. A holistic approach to health considers both the physical and mental well-being of each person, promoting a higher quality of life.
4. Empowerment Through Education
Reducing opioids opens the door to educating patients about their treatment options. When individuals are aware of alternative therapies available to them, they can actively participate in their own healing journey. By collaborating with healthcare professionals, patients can co-create personalized treatment plans that align with their goals and values.
5. Personalized Care and Treatment
Every individual's body responds differently to medications and therapies. Reducing reliance on opioids allows healthcare providers to offer more personalized care. By tailoring treatments to the unique needs of each patient, healthcare professionals at KindlyMD can optimize outcomes, minimize side effects, and enhance the overall healing experience.
As advocates for comprehensive health and compassionate care, we firmly believe that reducing opioids and harsh prescription medications is a significant step towards a brighter, healthier future. By embracing alternative methods of pain management, we empower ourselves and our loved ones to take control of our well-being. Through education, collaboration, and a holistic approach to healthcare, we can pave the way for improved pain relief, mental well-being, and overall vitality.
At KindlyMD, we are dedicated to guiding you on this journey toward health and healing. Our compassionate team is here to provide the support, education, and expertise you need to make informed decisions about your well-being. Together, let's reduce opioids, nurture holistic health, and build a community that thrives on well-rounded, sustainable healing. Schedule your appointment today.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. "Chronic Pain: What You Need to Know." NCCIH, 2021, https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/chronic-pain-what-you-need-to-know.
Chou, et al. "The Effectiveness and Risks of Long-Term Opioid Therapy for Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review for a National Institutes of Health Pathways to Prevention Workshop." Annals of Internal Medicine, 2015, https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/m14-2559
At KindlyMD, we believe in holistic healthcare that encompasses not just the physical aspects but also the emotional and mental well-being of our patients. Today, we want to discuss a topic that often gets overlooked but is of paramount importance: the intersection of chronic pain and mental health. Emerging research is shedding light on the profound impact that mental health support can have on managing chronic pain effectively. Join us as we explore the connection and the benefits of a comprehensive approach to your well-being.
Chronic pain isn't just about physical discomfort; it can take a toll on your mental and emotional state. Studies have shown that individuals dealing with chronic pain often experience increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. This complex relationship creates a vicious cycle where the pain exacerbates mental health issues, and those issues, in turn, intensify the perception of pain.
A 2019 study published in the "Journal of Pain Research" found that chronic pain patients with comorbid anxiety or depression reported higher pain intensity and reduced quality of life compared to those without these mental health conditions. This highlights the need to address not just the physical symptoms but also the emotional well-being of chronic pain sufferers.
At KindlyMD, we understand the intricate connection between chronic pain and mental health. Our compassionate team of healthcare professionals is committed to providing comprehensive care, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of your pain. Our personalized treatment plans include a combination of traditional medicine, alternative treatments, and mental health support to ensure you receive the holistic care you deserve.
Chronic pain is more than just physical discomfort; it's a complex experience that impacts every aspect of your life. The KindlyMD team is here to support you on your path to healing. Remember, you're not alone, and a comprehensive approach that includes mental health support can make all the difference. Let's work together towards a brighter, pain-free future. We can break the cycle of chronic pain and help you regain the quality of life you deserve. Contact us today or schedule now to embark on a journey toward healing, where your mental well-being is just as crucial as your physical health.
In the ever-evolving world of healthcare, breakthroughs in weight loss strategies are always welcome news. Today, we're excited to delve into a revolutionary trend that's gaining traction and changing lives: weight loss injections. We understand the challenges of shedding those stubborn pounds, and we're here to share how this innovative approach could be a game-changer for you. Let's explore the science behind these injections and how they're becoming a beacon of hope for those on their weight loss journey.
It's crucial to have a firm understanding of the science behind any healthcare trend or fad diet. Weight loss injections are no different. These injections use ingredients like Semaglutide and Tirzepatide and are designed to target key factors in weight management, such as appetite suppression, metabolism enhancement, and fat breakdown. The results can be remarkable, especially when combined with a balanced diet and regular physical activity.
According to a recent study (Smith et al., 2022), participants who received weight loss injections as part of a comprehensive weight loss program showed a significant reduction in body mass index (BMI) compared to those who followed only traditional methods.
At KindlyMD, our commitment to your well-being is unwavering. We understand that weight loss isn't just about physical changes; it's a journey that encompasses emotional, mental, and physical aspects. That's why our care team is here to guide you every step of the way. We believe in a compassionate approach that considers your unique needs and goals.
A 2023 study shows there is value in personalized weight loss support to achieve long-term success (Rodriguez et al, 2023). The emotional connection and understanding provided by healthcare professionals can significantly impact motivation and adherence to a weight loss plan.
Your journey to a healthier weight is a collaborative effort. Our healthcare team will work hand in hand with you to create a personalized weight loss plan that aligns with your lifestyle, preferences, and medical history. We'll monitor your progress closely and make adjustments as needed, ensuring that you're on the path to success.
The ever-popular weight loss injection offers a promising avenue for those seeking effective and personalized weight loss solutions. At KindlyMD, we're excited about the potential of this approach, and we're dedicated to supporting you throughout your journey. Together, we can turn your weight loss goals into a reality, bringing about a healthier and more vibrant you.
Remember, your health is our priority, and we're here to empower you to make the best decisions for your well-being. Schedule an appointment now or contact us today to learn more about how weight loss injections, combined with our compassionate integrated approach, can make a positive impact on your life.
Disclaimer: Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any weight loss program or treatment. Individual results may vary.
Managing depression is one of the most common reasons people seek mental health treatment. Life presents each of us with unique challenges that can affect our mental state negatively. Therefore, we all feel sad now and then. But when that sadness persists for long periods of time, depression may be to blame.
Here are a few tips for managing depression and feeling like yourself again.
Although there are numerous treatments for treating depression effectively, it’s important to set realistic expectations about your treatment. There is no “one size fits all” approach to treating depression, and effective treatments require time and patience. People with depression often need to try several types of treatments or medications to find the ones that help the most.
A patient with depression probably won’t see results right away. Recovering from depression is an ongoing process, not something that happens overnight. Progress may seem slow at first, but we encourage our patients not to give up.
People suffering from depression may find it helpful to seek the support of family and friends during the treatment process. Words of encouragement from a trusted friend or family member can help a patient with depression realize there is hope.
With some persistence and dedication throughout this process, a person with depression can begin to enjoy a happier lifestyle.
Keeping good mental and physical health depends, in part, on the duration and quality of one’s sleep. If you feel exhausted after a night of poor sleep, chances are your mood is subpar too.
Sleep disturbances are common in people with depression, and the two conditions are linked closely. Poor sleep quality can lead to depression and vice versa.
“Poor sleep may create difficulties regulating emotions that, in turn, may leave you more vulnerable to depression in the future—months or even years from now. And depression itself is associated with sleep difficulties such as shortening the amount of restorative slow-wave sleep a person gets each night,’ wrote Dr. Patrick Finan, a sleep expert at Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Here are some tips for practicing better sleep hygiene:
Once you’re getting enough sleep, you’ll probably notice an improvement in your mood and overall well-being.
People with depression often feel overwhelmed with managing day-to-day responsibilities. The stress that comes with feeling overwhelmed can lead to depression and make any existing depression feel worse.
One way to relieve this type of stress is by creating a daily routine. The structure and predictability of a regular daily schedule can help a person feel in control of his or her life.
Organizational skills also help us take on challenging tasks by breaking them into smaller, more manageable ones. For example, cleaning your entire house might seem daunting. Instead of considering the big picture all at once, try focusing on the most heavily trafficked rooms first. Then, think about the most important tasks to complete in each of those rooms.
This “cleaning house” example is a prescient one for people suffering from depression. Research has shown cluttered living spaces can contribute to depression by worsening stress and anxiety. On the other hand, a clean, organized environment promotes serenity and a better mood.
There are many resources for developing better organizational skills. Your local library probably has multiple books dedicated to the subject, and a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (see the next section) can offer suggestions too.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a type of evidence-based psychotherapy that has been shown to be effective in treating depression and other mental health conditions. CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thoughts and behaviors, including those that contribute to depression. The goal with CBT is to help people learn new coping skills and develop more positive ways of thinking, which can improve their mood and reduce depression symptoms.
CBT helps people with depression to recognize any negative thoughts and beliefs that are contributing to depression. Some examples of these types of thoughts include pessimism, self-criticism, and negative self-talk. By participating in CBT, a person can learn not to trust those negative thoughts and beliefs, and replace them with positive and realistic ones.
Through CBT, a patient with depression can learn to manage stress and negative emotions by practicing relaxation techniques, problem-solving skills, and other strategies. CBT is often used in conjunction with medication to treat people with depression.
People battling depression sometimes neglect their own needs and struggle to take care of themselves. However, by engaging in self-care, a person with depression can improve emotional well-being and alleviate depression symptoms.
To practice self-care, you must first identify what self-care means to you. Some common self-care activities include meditation, exercise, taking a relaxing bath, getting a massage, reading, and journaling. The idea here is to think about the activities you can do to help you feel relaxed and stress-free. Once you’ve identified a few, make them part of your regular routine.
Committing to regular self-care can go a long way toward alleviating the severity of depression symptoms.
At KindlyMD, we see many patients who have a desire to reduce or eliminate their use of certain prescription medications. For example, a person suffering from anxiety may want to reduce or cease using a benzodiazepine (sedative) like Xanax.
According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, as many as 44% of chronic benzodiazepine users become dependent on those drugs. We recognize benzodiazepines have an important place in treating anxiety, and they can be the most appropriate treatment for a given patient.
We also recognize that many patients don’t want to be dependent on prescriptions like Xanax for the treatment of stress or anxiety. Fortunately, there’s a long list of proven techniques that can reduce the strain and worries that we each face throughout our lives.
Let’s look at a few of the non-prescription options that can improve quality of life for people with stress and anxiety.
As you're probably aware, people use Medical Cannabis to treat a broad range of conditions, including stress and anxiety. In fact, stress and anxiety are among the most cited reasons for using cannabis to seek relief.
We’ll note that most Medical Cannabis programs in the United States do not recognize stress or anxiety as qualifying conditions. However, another qualifying condition–such as pain or cancer–may be the underlying source of stress or anxiety. In cases like these, a qualifying patient can use cannabis to treat multiple conditions at once.
Products high in cannabidiol (CBD) are perhaps the best option for people seeking relief from stress or anxiety through cannabis. Preclinical and animal research has shown CBD is quite effective in treating stress-related anxiety and lingering anxiety.
Research has also shown low doses of Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) can be effective in relieving stress and anxiety. It’s important to note, however, that THC is “biphasic.” This means THC can have one effect at smaller doses and the opposite effect at higher doses. Because of its biphasic nature, THC can actually induce anxiety when used at higher doses.
We always recommend the “start low and go slow” approach for patients beginning a Medical Cannabis treatment regimen. Please refer to our “Find Your ‘Just Right’ Dose” guide for using Medical Cannabis effectively. The guide will help you learn your minimum effective dose and significantly reduce the risk of unpleasant side effects.
KindlyMD recently launched its own line of gummies made with hemp-derived cannabinoids, including CBD and THC. Our CBN Blend gummies are ideal for people suffering from stress or anxiety. Research shows cannabinol (CBN) has sedative and anti-anxiety effects.
The 9:1:1 ratio of CBD, CBN, and THC in CBN Blend gummies promotes tranquility and relaxation. Click here for more information on CBN Blend and other gummy products available exclusively through KindlyMD.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that is widely used to treat stress and anxiety. It aims to change the way a person thinks and behaves, by identifying negative or unhelpful thoughts and behaviors and replacing them with more positive ones.
CBT is a short-term, goal-oriented therapy that involves regular sessions with a trained therapist. During these sessions, the therapist works with the patient to identify triggers for their stress or anxiety and develop coping strategies to manage them. CBT is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected and that by changing one, we can change the others.
CBT has been found to be effective in reducing symptoms of stress and anxiety, and can be used as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with medication. This is a practical and evidence-based approach that empowers patients to take control of their thoughts and behaviors and can help them to live happier, healthier lives.
We invite KindlyMD patients to discuss the benefits of CBT with one of our Behavioral Health Clinicians.
Mindfulness meditation involves focusing your attention on the present moment without judgment. This practice can help you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings, which can reduce stress and anxiety. Research has shown that mindfulness meditation can improve mood, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and improve overall well-being.
To practice mindfulness meditation, sit or lie down in a quiet place and focus your attention on your breath. As you inhale and exhale, bring your attention back to your breath whenever your mind wanders.
Exercise is a powerful stress reliever that can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural chemicals that promote feelings of well-being. Research has shown that exercise can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, along with improving one’s overall well-being.
To get started with exercise, choose an activity that you enjoy, such as walking, running, swimming, or cycling. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. You can also try group exercise classes like yoga, Pilates, or spin classes.
KindlyMD recently expanded its services to include behavioral healthcare, among other offerings. We talked with Dr. Jamie Bustamante, Behavioral Health Director at KindlyMD, about the advantages of behavioral healthcare for our patients.
Although the behavioral healthcare services at KindlyMD don't replace traditional therapy, they're helpful in managing conditions like pain and PTSD.
Read on for Dr. Bustamante’s answers to questions about pain, PTSD, and behavioral healthcare in general.
KindlyMD offers psychiatric medication management and traditional therapy to treat adults with a variety of mental health issues. We offer a safe and accepting environment to help patients find the right medications, alternative treatments, and mental health interventions that work best for them.
KindlyMD also offers brief, solution focused therapy in conjunction with medication management appointments to help patients manage life stressors and improve overall health and wellness.
Yes, we hope to offer ketamine and other alternative treatments to improve mental health in the future. We’re also interested in the mental health benefits of MDMA and psilocybin. With any luck, our state legislature will legalize MDMA and psilocybin for therapeutic use at some point in the future.
The BHC can offer realistic strategies to help patients improve their overall health and functioning. This includes specific strategies to improve quality of life for those who are managing chronic pain, improving sleep, diet strategies, stress management, and everything in between. They provide support and encouragement during each visit, and they work with the patients' needs to develop attainable goals and improve physical and mental health.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based therapy that focuses on changing people's thoughts and emotions to improve their daily experience and behaviors. CBT interventions are used to challenge and change negative belief patterns to improve the patient's mental health. KindlyMD uses CBT in conjunction with mindfulness other therapeutic interventions to meet the needs of the patient. We believe that each patient will respond differently and we seek to find the appropriate intervention and the appropriate medication that is tailored to the patient's individual needs.
Pain often limits a person's ability to participate in the experiences that create meaning in their life. People suffering from pain often reduce the time they spend participating in hobbies, relationships, and meaningful work. This can lead to increased focus on pain and negatively impact mental health.
KindlyMD focuses not only on treating pain with traditional and alternative medication but also uses behavior strategies to improve overall quality of life. These strategies include working with the patient to understand their limitations, to help them participate in activities within those limitations. We also work to help people change their self-concept and increase their ability to find meaning in their lives by helping them to improve relationships and find new ways to enjoy life.
Absolutely, if someone identifies with their pain and how it limits them, pain can be the dominant experience in their life. Pain can become much more manageable through a combination of behavioral strategies, traditional and alternative treatments, and developing better thinking habits. If a person is focused less on pain by increasing positive experiences in their life, pain is no longer the dominant experience.
People diagnosed with PTSD have experienced real or perceived threats to their lives, sexual violence, or witnessed violence. Traumatic events like these often result in accompanying symptoms that impact functioning. Most commonly, I treat PTSD as a result of sexual assault or childhood trauma. We also see people who have experienced combat trauma or other traumatic events in their lives.
Evidence-based, trauma-focused treatments are most effective for PTSD. These include Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and others. In order to treat and heal trauma, the individual has to essentially re-experience the trauma in a safe environment. Providing a safe and collaborative therapeutic environment and focusing on the therapeutic relationship is essential to effective PTSD treatment.
Yes, desensitization through exposure therapy and trauma processing can significantly reduce PTSD triggers.
With Trauma Informed Care, the clinician focuses on what happened to the patient rather than what is wrong with the patient. This therapy focuses on understanding that everyone has painful life experiences (either expressed or private). These experiences can affect a person's ability to function physically, emotionally, and mentally. We aim to treat everyone with empathy, respect, and transparency. This helps our patients by avoiding re-traumatization and creating a safe environment where they feel heard and understood.
Utah residents diagnosed with certain qualifying conditions are eligible to apply for Medical Cards that give them access to certain types of herbal medicines. Given that KindlyMD operates a number of pain clinics here in Utah, we can also help patients apply for their cards. One of the tools we rely on to get the process started is a short quiz designed to quickly determine Medical Card eligibility
While the quiz is only a preliminary determination, the patient completes the quiz and submits it electronically. We can determine, from the answers given, whether a patient is likely to qualify. If so, the patient can then make an appointment to see one of our qualified medical providers (QMPs).
For KindlyMD QMPs to make a Medical Card recommendation, we need to verify two things. Our preliminary quiz helps us here by giving us some basic information. A patient's answers can give us a sense of their overall health and any health problems.
Here is what we need to verify:
To verify these two things, our quiz asks some basic questions. One of the questions relates to the condition for which you are seeking treatment. Chronic pain is one of the options you can choose. But we also ask:
The answers you provide tell us a great deal. We can learn a lot more by sitting down and talking things over in-person, but the quiz is a very useful preliminary screening tool. It helps both KindlyMD and its patients get a better idea of whether a Medical Card is worth investigating further.
Patients interested in visiting our QMPs to obtain their Medical Cards can complete our quiz online. It only takes a minute or so. If you are concerned about submitting information online, know that KindlyMD is HIPAA compliant. You might even notice a small seal at the bottom of the quiz designating as much.
HIPAA stands for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. In a nutshell, HIPAA is a 1996 federal law that requires healthcare providers to protect their patients’ sensitive medical information.
We take every precaution possible to protect patient data. We comply with all state and federal mandates relating to collecting and storing information online. But even if the legal mandates weren't there, we would still do our best to protect our patients. Your safety and security are important to us.
We assume you have visited the KindlyMD website because you are looking to visit a pain management doctor. If that's the case, we encourage you to take our Utah Medical Card eligibility quiz today. It may be that getting a Medical Card isn't your best option. But perhaps it is. There's no way to know without first visiting with a QMP. Our quiz is the starting point.
Believe it or not, taking the brief quiz accomplishes a lot. It gives us vital information we need to determine whether we can help you get your card.
