Murilo Lima, Author at LIMA MD https://lima-md.com/author/murilolimamd/ Direct Primary Care & MedSpa Sun, 10 Dec 2023 19:22:32 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.1 https://i0.wp.com/lima-md.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/new-faveicon.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Murilo Lima, Author at LIMA MD https://lima-md.com/author/murilolimamd/ 32 32 226821690 Direct Primary Care (DPC) https://lima-md.com/direct-primary-care-dpc/ Wed, 29 Nov 2023 00:53:42 +0000 https://lima-md.com/?p=540 DPC is the single best alternative to regular “fee per care” medicine. It is a medical practice that does NOT deal with insurance companies, and focus on providing convenient, affordable and highest quality medical care directly to patients without any third parties being involved. The contract is straight between the patient and the doctor. Transparency […]

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DPC is the single best alternative to regular “fee per care” medicine. It is a medical practice that does NOT deal with insurance companies, and focus on providing convenient, affordable and highest quality medical care directly to patients without any third parties being involved.

The contract is straight between the patient and the doctor. Transparency is key. The high quality, evidence-based medicine will be provided to you directly by a board-certified PHYSICIAN, at an affordable cost. The low monthly membership fee will include virtually unlimited access to your doctor for all your medically related needs.

Be mindful that DPC is not a health insurance! Our patients are strongly encouraged to acquire a “catastrophic” high deductible health insurance for hospitalizations and emergencies.

BENEFITS OF DPC

• Office visits with your physician are virtually unlimited

• You will have access to your doctor by text, phone and video calls, email

• We are specialized in disease prevention and management of chronic diseases such as hypertension, asthma, diabetes

• Acute care clinic for minor injuries and illnesses

• Gynecological care, pap tests, and family planning

• Procedures like skin biopsies, ingrown toenail removal, joint injections

• Travel exams, school and work physicals

• Mental health and wellness coaching

• Radiology and Laboratory services done in house and at a significantly reduced cost

• Medications dispensed in office with best pricing available and access to wholesale medications

Direct Primary Care (DPC) Physician:

  • Membership Model:
    • Subscription-based model where patients pay a monthly or annual fee for unlimited access to primary care services.
  • Extended Access:
    • Longer appointment times and more flexible scheduling, allowing for comprehensive and unhurried visits.
  • No Insurance Billing:
    • DPC physicians often do not bill insurance for routine services, reducing administrative overhead and paperwork.
  • Cost Transparency:
    • Clear and transparent pricing for services, with no surprise fees, copays, or deductibles.
  • Focus on Preventive Care:
    • Emphasis on proactive and preventive care to maintain overall health and address issues before they become more serious.
  • Enhanced Doctor-Patient Relationship:
    • More personalized and stronger relationships between patients and physicians due to the smaller patient load.
  • Telemedicine Services:
    • Often includes virtual consultations, providing convenient access to healthcare remotely.
  • Wide Range of Services:
    • Comprehensive primary care services, including some in-house procedures, without the need for referrals to specialists for every issue.

Regular Primary Care Physician:

  • Insurance Billing:
    • Acceptance of insurance, which may cover a portion of the medical expenses, but can also result in administrative burdens and paperwork.
  • Standard Appointment Times:
    • Typically shorter appointment times due to higher patient volumes, potentially leading to a more rushed experience.
  • Traditional Fee-for-Service Model:
    • Billing for each service provided, with copays and deductibles as per the insurance plan.
  • Referral System:
    • Often requires referrals for specialized care, leading to additional steps and potentially delays in treatment.
  • Varied Doctor-Patient Relationships:
    • Relationships may vary in strength due to larger patient loads and time constraints.
  • Telemedicine Availability:
    • Telemedicine services may be available but could be influenced by the policies of the healthcare system.
  • Preventive Care Focus:
    • While preventive care is important, time constraints may limit the depth of discussion and planning during appointments.
  • Specialized Care:
    • Referral to specialists is more common for complex or specialized health issues.

FAQ

Find quick answers for most common questions about Direct Primary Care (DPC)

Why should I choose Direct Primary Care (DPC) over traditional healthcare?

Direct Primary Care offers a transparent and cost-effective alternative to traditional healthcare. With a fixed monthly membership fee, you gain access to comprehensive, personalized healthcare services without the complexities of copays, deductibles, or surprise fees.

How does DPC save me money compared to traditional healthcare?

By eliminating insurance hassles and administrative overhead, we are able to offer transparent and affordable pricing. Our membership model covers a wide range of services, providing value and potentially saving you money when compared to traditional co-pays and deductibles.

What's included in the membership fee?

Our membership fee covers a variety of services, including extended appointment times, same-day or next-day visits, preventive screenings, and chronic disease management. This all-inclusive approach ensures you receive comprehensive care without additional out-of-pocket costs.

Are there family or group discounts available?

Yes, we offer family and group membership discounts to make quality healthcare accessible for households. This ensures that everyone in your family can benefit from the personalized care and affordability of our DPC model.

How does DPC promote preventive care and save me money in the long run?

Preventive care is a key focus of DPC. By including preventive screenings in your membership, we aim to catch potential health issues early, preventing more significant and costly treatments in the future. This proactive approach can lead to long-term cost savings and improved overall well-being.

Does DPC cover prescription medications?

While our membership does not cover the cost of medications directly, we often collaborate with pharmacies to provide our members with discounted rates on prescription medications, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses. Our in house pharmacy has most of the medications you will need at very discounted rates.

How can I calculate the potential savings by choosing DPC?

We understand the importance of making informed healthcare decisions. Feel free to reach out for a consultation where we can discuss your specific needs and provide you with personalized information on potential cost savings based on your healthcare requirements.

How do I get started with DPC at LIMA MD Direct Primary Care & MedSpa?

Taking the first step is easy. Simply click on "ENROLL NOW" to add on your basic contact information and once that is done we will reach out to you on a timely manner. To learn more about our membership plans, pricing details, Business Packages and the unique benefits of choosing Direct Primary Care for your healthcare needs, please check out the other pages of our website or give us a call.

Can I come in for a one time visit?

Yes. But, one time visits are discouraged in the DPC practice as follow up appointments are nearly inevitably necessary.

Pricing for one time visits start at $150, and do not include labs/imaging discounted (Member) rates.

What are some differences in prices between a member and a non member?

Service | DPC Member Price | Non-Member Price

Office Visit (per visit) | $0 (Included in Membership) | $150 (Starting)

Membership Fee | $49; $79; $99; $129 (Varies by age) | N/A

Telemedicine Consultation | $0 (Included in Membership) | $99 (Starting)

Basic Lab Tests (e.g., CBC, CMP). | $3 - $19 (Discount) | $150 - $399+ (Average)

Preventive Screenings | $0 (Included) | $175 (Starting)

In-House Procedures (e.g., stitches). | $0 - $50 (Included/Discount) | $250+ (Starting)

Specialist Referral Coordination | $0 (Included in Membership) | $150 (Average)

Chronic Disease Management | $0 (Included in Membership) | $150 (Starting, per visit)

X-rays and Imaging (Discounted) | $0 - $100 (Discounted) | $200 - $3000 (Varies)

Prescription Medications (Discount) | $0 - $20 (Discounted) | Full Retail Price

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]]> 540 Anti-Aging https://lima-md.com/anti-aging/ Wed, 29 Nov 2023 22:13:48 +0000 https://lima-md.com/?p=577 Ponce De Leon's quest for the Fountain of Youth aimed to extend life and regain youthfulness. Although elusive, the desire to live healthier and longer lives has fueled scientific research, leading to strategies to slow down aging. While aging is inevitable, some individuals in their 80s appear and feel better than those in their 40s. […]

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]]> Ponce De Leon's quest for the Fountain of Youth aimed to extend life and regain youthfulness.

Although elusive, the desire to live healthier and longer lives has fueled scientific research, leading to strategies to slow down aging.

While aging is inevitable, some individuals in their 80s appear and feel better than those in their 40s. Our lifestyle, diet, stress levels, and genetics influence the aging process.

While genetics are beyond control, you can actively combat aging through various strategies.

NAD+ Therapy

NAD+, or nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, is a crucial coenzyme found in every cell of the body. It plays a fundamental role in various biological processes, particularly those related to energy metabolism and cellular function. NAD+ exists in two forms: NAD+ and its reduced form, NADH. NAD+ Therapy will play a central role in cellular energy production, DNA repair, neurological health, metabolic function, mitochondrial health and Sirtuin Activation.

Our anti-aging therapy using NAD+ is a part of our all-encompassing approach to rediscovering vibrancy and attaining peak well-being.

Hormonal Therapy for Men and Women

Embark on a transformative journey with our tailored hormonal therapy designed for both men and women. Experience heightened energy levels, increased vitality, and improved cognitive function for mental clarity and focus. Reclaim vitality in all aspects of life, from boosted erectile function to enhanced vaginal lubrication and improved sleep quality. Our specialized therapy goes beyond the physical, offering a reduction in feelings of depression and anxiety, reigniting motivation and drive. Embrace a heightened sense of well-being with a reinvigorated libido and witness positive changes in physique through enhanced fat loss and improved muscle mass. Enjoy additional benefits such as decreased blood pressure, reinforced bone health, and minimized risks for prostate cancer and Alzheimer's. Our holistic approach to hormonal therapy is dedicated to optimizing your health and well-being, ensuring you live your best life at every stage.

Sermorelin Peptide Therapy

Sermorelin offers a range of benefits by stimulating the natural production of growth hormone from the pituitary gland. In children and adolescents, it supports growth and development, while in adults, it contributes to enhanced metabolism, potential weight management, and fat loss. The released growth hormone plays a vital role in muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall body development. Additionally, Sermorelin is explored for its potential anti-aging effects, although ongoing research is needed to fully understand its efficacy in this regard. Some individuals also consider Sermorelin for potential athletic performance enhancement. Notably, its advantage lies in promoting a more natural pattern of growth hormone release, potentially minimizing the risk of negative side effects associated with other forms of growth hormone administration. As with any medical intervention, it's essential to use Sermorelin under the supervision of a qualified medical professional, ensuring an individualized approach based on specific health considerations and the intended treatment goals.

Wellness

Just like having the right hormone levels, vitamins, coenzymes, antioxidants, amino acids, and supplements are also crucial for keeping our bodies strong and healthy.

Our bodies are intricate, designed to run on specific fuels and systems that regulate and remove harmful substances. With age, these systems slow down, affecting our performance. Just like the fuel you use impacts your car's performance, the quality of what you consume and use for your body can lead to minor improvements or major transformations. We'll collaborate to create an optimal plan and provide the information you need to make the best choices for your optimal health.

FAQ

Find quick answers for most common questions about Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy and Testosterone Replacement Therapy

What are the main benefits of NAD+ Therapy?

1. Energy Production: NAD+ emerges as a key catalyst in cellular energy production, playing a pivotal role in converting nutrients into energy within cells. This contributes to a noticeable enhancement in overall energy levels.

2. Cellular Repair and Longevity: NAD+ is intricately involved in various cellular repair mechanisms, including DNA repair. The implications of NAD+ therapy extend to potential anti-aging effects by fostering cellular health and promoting longevity.

3. Neurological Health: Critical for maintaining neuron health and supporting optimal brain function, NAD+ therapy presents neuroprotective possibilities. Studies suggest its potential benefits for conditions related to neurological well-being.

4. Metabolic Function: NAD+ plays a vital role in metabolic processes, including those governing glucose and lipid metabolism. The exploration of NAD+ therapy holds promise for managing metabolic disorders and bolstering overall metabolic health.

5. Mitochondrial Function: Essential for cellular energy production, NAD+ is a linchpin for mitochondrial function. NAD+ therapy may serve to fortify mitochondrial health and optimize their functionality.

6. Sirtuin Activation: NAD+ acts as a co-substrate for sirtuins, enzymes regulating cellular processes linked to aging, metabolism, and stress response. Engaging in NAD+ therapy holds the potential to enhance sirtuin activity, contributing to a holistic approach to well-being.

What are the benefits of Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy?

For Women:

  1. Relief from Menopausal Symptoms: HRT can alleviate symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.
  2. Improved Mood: Hormonal fluctuations during menopause can impact mood. HRT may help stabilize mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
  3. Bone Health: Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density. HRT can contribute to better bone health and a reduced risk of osteoporosis.
  4. Heart Health: Some studies suggest that HRT may have cardiovascular benefits, including a positive impact on cholesterol levels.
  5. Vaginal and Sexual Health: HRT can improve vaginal lubrication, reduce discomfort during intercourse, and enhance libido.

For Men:

  1. Increased Energy and Vitality: Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may lead to increased energy levels, vitality, and an overall sense of well-being.
  2. Improved Mood: Low testosterone levels can contribute to mood swings and irritability. TRT may help stabilize mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
  3. Muscle Mass and Strength: Testosterone is crucial for maintaining muscle mass and strength. TRT can support muscle development and physical performance.
  4. Bone Health: Testosterone plays a role in bone density. TRT may contribute to better bone health and a reduced risk of osteoporosis.
  5. Libido and Sexual Function: Testosterone is essential for libido and sexual function in men. TRT can enhance sexual desire and improve erectile function.

What is Sermorelin? How does it function and how can it play a role in anti-aging?

Sermorelin, also known as sermorelin acetate, is a synthetic peptide that acts as a growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog. It is used as a medical treatment to stimulate the production and release of natural growth hormone (GH) from the pituitary gland in the brain. Growth hormone plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, including growth, metabolism, tissue repair, and overall body development.

Sermorelin works by mimicking the action of natural GHRH. Here's how the process generally works:

Stimulation of Pituitary Gland: Sermorelin is typically administered through subcutaneous injections. Once in the body, it acts on the pituitary gland, a small gland located at the base of the brain.

GHRH Binding: Sermorelin binds to specific receptors on the surface of pituitary cells that are responsible for producing and releasing growth hormone.

Stimulation of Growth Hormone Release: By binding to these receptors, sermorelin triggers the pituitary gland to release more growth hormone into the bloodstream. This release occurs in a pulsatile manner, similar to the natural pattern of growth hormone release in the body.

Effects on Target Tissues: Once released into the bloodstream, growth hormone exerts its effects on various target tissues throughout the body. It promotes growth and development in children and adolescents, as well as influences metabolism, muscle growth, and tissue repair in adults.

Sermorelin is often used as a treatment option for individuals with growth hormone deficiency, a condition where the pituitary gland does not produce adequate amounts of growth hormone. It is also sometimes used off-label for anti-aging purposes and athletic performance enhancement, although its effectiveness for these purposes is still a subject of debate and research.

Compared to direct administration of synthetic growth hormone, using sermorelin to stimulate the body's natural production of growth hormone can help maintain a more natural pattern of hormone release, potentially reducing the risk of negative side effects associated with excessive or improperly regulated growth hormone levels. It's important to note that the use of sermorelin should be done under the supervision of a qualified medical professional, as improper usage can lead to adverse effects and imbalances in hormone levels. The appropriate dosage and administration schedule are determined based on individual health considerations and the specific condition being treated.

What are the benefits of Sermorelin?

The benefits of Sermorelin include:

  1. Stimulation of Natural Growth Hormone Production: Sermorelin promotes the production and release of natural growth hormone from the pituitary gland, aiding in maintaining optimal growth hormone levels.
  2. Improved Growth and Development: In children and adolescents, Sermorelin supports growth and development by enhancing the effects of growth hormone.
  3. Enhanced Metabolism: Sermorelin influences metabolism, potentially aiding in weight management and fat loss.
  4. Muscle Growth and Tissue Repair: The growth hormone released through Sermorelin plays a role in muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall body development.
  5. Potential Anti-Aging Effects: Sermorelin is sometimes used off-label for anti-aging purposes, with ongoing research exploring its efficacy in addressing age-related concerns.
  6. Athletic Performance Enhancement: While still a subject of debate and research, some individuals use Sermorelin for potential benefits in athletic performance enhancement.
  7. More Natural Hormone Release: Compared to direct administration of synthetic growth hormone, Sermorelin helps maintain a more natural pattern of growth hormone release, potentially reducing the risk of negative side effects associated with excessive or improperly regulated growth hormone levels.

What can I do to boost my natural testosterone?

Elevating your natural testosterone levels presents a viable solution for men with lower testosterone levels yet the potential for increased production. Through comprehensive blood tests, we can assess your candidacy for this option, particularly beneficial for younger men or those prioritizing fertility maintenance. Opting for testosterone boosting mitigates the risk of undesirable side effects linked to inadequately monitored testosterone replacement therapy, such as testicular shrinkage, diminished fertility, and heightened red blood cell counts.

Our approach extends to assisting in the restoration of your natural testosterone levels, especially after the use of other hormones or supplements that may have contributed to a decline post-discontinuation. Take control of your hormonal health with our tailored strategies, ensuring a nuanced and effective approach to optimize your well-being.

Pellet therapy boasts minimal and easily treatable side effects. While exceptionally rare, instances of inflammation at the insertion site or pellet displacement may occur. Generally, patients only encounter minor bruising at the insertion site.

What are the side effects of Bio-identical HRT with Pellets?

What are the side effects of Testosterone for Men?

Awareness of potential side effects is vital. Although uncommon, issues such as enlarged breasts, prostate concerns, decreased sperm count, prolonged erections, acne, and sleep apnea may arise. Also, testosterone stimulation of bone marrow may increase red blood cell production; if levels get too high, blood donation is a viable solution. Our clinic prioritize your well-being, working closely to tailor dosages and minimize any side effects. The overarching aim of testosterone therapy is to enhance your health and quality of life, assisting men in rediscovering passion, strength, and confidence. Schedule a visit with us to discover how testosterone therapy can positively impact your life, and let's achieve your goals together.

What are the side effects of Pellet therapy for Women?

Pellet therapy stands out for its minimal side effects, with rare instances of transient breast discomfort, nipple tenderness, or bloating. Infrequent occurrences include minor bruising at the insertion site, inflammation, or pellet displacement. Sensitive hormone receptors may lead to temporary water weight gain, and for women with a uterus, some menstrual-type bleeding may occur, easily managed by adjusting pellet dosage. Testosterone pellets may result in manageable effects like increased hair growth or mild acne. Inform us promptly about any side effects during the brief hormone balancing process for personalized adjustments.

How can I get started?

1. Click on "ENROLL NOW"

2. We will reach out to you and you will receive a form via email. Fill it out promptly prior to your first visit with Dr. Lima ($150 for the visit).

3. After determining what is best for you, reviewing labs, etc. You will be ready to start your therapy.

Women: $395 charged at each pellet insertion day

Men: $100 per month charged every 6 months

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