Functional medicine practitioners in Brisbane

[banannable]

Hi guys

I used this website to find a functional dr in my area - www.acnem.org/find-a-practitioner/queensland. I just got back from my appointment... it was not a great experience : (

It started out okay (although the dr was 30 minutes late). I explained my history of Thyroid Eye Disease, and that I now have acne after coming off the pill, and that I thought the two were both related to autoimmunity. I said I was on the AIP diet, and taking supplements and trying to reduce stress, and that I wanted to find a dr to support me through all this. She said she didn't have a problem with the Paleo diet (but didn't seem to be a huge advocate). She questioned the supplements that I'm on (which were recommended on The Paleo Mom). But generally we were on the same page. 

Things went downhill when we got to my acne though... She doesn't believe that diet affects acne. Hmmm, I was honest with her and said that I thought it was related, and that it was all part of the autoimmunity 'jazz' I have going on. She said that eating a bad diet will make my skin worse, but that the AIP won't help with my skin (which seems a contradiction to me - if diet can make my skin worse, can't it make it better?!). I tried to express my opinion and the research I've done, but she just wouldn't have a bar of it. She even started using phrases like, "As I've said to you a million times now!..." Her recommendations in the end were topical treatments plus oral antibiotics or the pill. 

It was so upsetting and disappointing. While it would have been clear that I wasn't too happy with the whole situation, I don't think I was rude to her. My tone would have come across more as despair or exasperation I think. I found her quite aggressive and rude though. I had to pay $110 for the 'privilege', and if someone paid me $110 for half an hour of my time I think I could muster up some manners!

There is a part of me that's willing to admit that my inner child probably wasn't happy at not getting what I wanted (i.e. a doctor that agrees with my approach). But if I had felt that her recommendations had value, even if contrary to my beliefs, I would have been happy to give it a try!! But seriously, Cetaphil and an antibiotic??!

So, I'm partly here just to have a vent, but I'm also wondering if anyone can recommend a true functional doctor in Brisbane? And am I allowed to share the name of the doctor here? I don't want to be rude or break any rules, but if it can save anyone else the time, money and heartache, I will!!

Now I have to go get ready for a friend's wedding, and I just feel crappy - angry, upset, desperate, ugly. I do not feel like having to 'spackle' my face yet again so it's acceptable to leave the house : (

[banannable]

Oh, I forgot to mention the kicker - at one point she said (in a very condescending tone), "Ohh, so you just want to take the easy way and change your diet for a quick fix."

The AIP is anything but the 'easy way'!!! If I wanted the 'easy way' I'd just go back on the pill!!

[smunt]

Hi, I came on here looking for a practitioner and found your post. I'm sorry you've had a bad experience. I'm not sure if you are allowed to say who they are, but I certainly would like to know! have you since found a new doctor that has helped you?

[banannable]

Hi Smunt! I've since found a good functional GP - Dr Mike Woodbridge at Teneriffe. I have only seen him twice but so far so good!

[paleoliz]

Hi banannable, Found this thread looking for a FM doc for my FIL in Bris. How are you finding Dr Woodbridge? Still seeing them? I'm curious if he's super expensive and your thoughts? My FIL is reluctant to change but he's have a lot of issues from diabetes.

TIA!

[banannable]

Hi paleoliz. I saw Dr Woodbridge several more times after I posted above, but in the end I stopped seeing him. He is fairly expensive - I can't remember exactly but it's a couple of hundred dollars for the initial appointment, then a bit less for follow ups. It adds up over time. He helped me to a degree, but in the end I wasn't getting anything out of seeing him and it was no longer worth the money. Also, in my opinion he made a few questionable suggestions, one being that I eat soy foods to help balance my hormones. His 'logic' was that since soy mimics estrogen in the body, it would help raise my estrogen levels. However, from all the research I've done soy should just be avoided (particularly in those with wonky hormones).

I now see a local GP in my area on the northside (happy to share details if this is in your area). He was recommended to me as he is not like an average GP and is more like an FM. He is also substantially cheaper than Dr Woodbridge (less than $100 for follow ups). So far he has been okay but not amazing (in terms of FM). He does listen, though, which I find can be rare in a doctor! Ultimately I see him to get my blood work done, and I do my own research elsewhere (mainly online).

Having said all this, I would actually still recommend Dr Woodbridge as he could set you on the right path or suggest something other doctors hadn't thought of. After a few appointments -- as many as you can afford ; ) -- you might find yourself armed with enough ideas and info to seek out someone else (or start doing your own research).

I hope this is helpful. Feel free to ask any other questions : )