The IFM Approach to Men’s Health, A Patient’s Perspective

At our medical facility we strive to give each and every patient the time, attention, and expertise they deserve. Our male patients are no exception. With the addition of Dr. Justin Janss and Dr. Stephen Hoelscher, we now have male providers who are able to provide psychiatric and mental health care, as well as internal medicine and weight loss therapy. As we shine a spotlight on men’s health issues this week, let’s take a deeper look into one of our male patient’s experiences at IFM. 

Jason, a husband and father to an infant son, came to Integrative Family Medicine last year at the recommendation of a friend for IV therapy prior to going on a trip. He continued to come to the clinic for a Myer’s cocktail IV when he felt a hint of illness coming on. After talking with the nurses and staff at IFM, he realized that IV therapy wasn’t all that IFM could do for him. Jason decided to switch his primary care over to our Medical Director, Sarah Lee, ARNP, and he’s glad he did. “Normal healthcare facilities feel very uptight and uncomfortable” says Jason. “Going into IFM is very comfortable and inviting. Instead of sitting on an exam table, you sit in a leather chair and just have a normal conversation.” It was in those comfortable leather chairs that he realized he was going to have to make some changes to get his health on track. 

After years of pursuing non-medically managed hormone therapies on his own; Jason’s body was out of balance. Fortunately for him, he had a primary care provider committed to providing him safe Testosterone Replacement Therapy. “It feels good to be going about things in a way more controlled and safe way than what I was doing before,” he says.

In addition to primary care, Jason trusts IFM with his mental health care. Through therapy with Dr. Danielle Fitch, he has been able to talk through some mental health concerns. “She took the time to help find the right answer,” he says. Jason’s time spent in the military taught him many valuable skills and life lessons, yet he’s had some lingering mental obstacles to process in his quest for inner balance. Unlike other treatment plans he’s tried in the past, Jason says he “enjoys coming in to see everyone at IFM and wants to keep his appointments.”

When ill and needing an urgent appointment, Jason called the clinic and was worked into the schedule. He saw Jackie Hojati, ARNP. The appointment was conversational and relaxed. He left feeling like his needs were addressed and he would be followed up on. 

The better health that Jason is attaining through utilizing IV therapy, primary care, psychiatric therapy, and urgent care at IFM help him to be more present with his loved ones, be a better dad, set a better example, and hopefully live a longer life.

Jason recommends IFM because the providers and staff are invested in their patients, the environment is welcoming, and the ease of scheduling compared to other medical facilities he has gone to. “No man wants to ask for help, but you have to if you want to live the best and healthiest life you can.” He encourages every man to take the first step. 

Thank you Jason for sharing your story. For encouraging other men to take the first step to attaining better health. Thank you also for your service to our country. 

Sara Lynn, RN, BSN
“If you don’t invest in your health, no one else will.”
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