For many people, the healthcare system becomes frustrating long before they receive a diagnosis. Symptoms are dismissed, lab work comes back "normal," and the next step is often another prescription rather than a conversation about why those symptoms developed in the first place.
In this episode, I'm joined by board-certified anesthesiologist and hormone optimization specialist Dr. Mike Fortunato to discuss his journey from conventional medicine into functional medicine, and why he believes many patients are looking for something today's healthcare model wasn't designed to provide.
Our conversation explores the realities of practicing medicine inside an insurance-driven system, the role hormones play in long-term health, and what Dr. Mike observed after years of caring for increasingly unhealthy surgical patients.
Topics We Cover in This Episode:
Why "normal" lab results don't always reflect optimal health
How Dr. Mike's own health challenges changed the way he practices medicine
What anesthesiology taught him about the declining health of today's patients
Why hormone optimization is about more than treating symptoms
How insurance influences the care many patients receive
The role lifestyle plays alongside hormone health
Why prevention often receives less attention than disease management
How patients can become stronger advocates for their own health
If you've been searching for a broader perspective on healthcare, hormones, and long-term wellness, I hope you'll join us for this conversation.
Dr. Mike’s Resources & Links:
💻 Optimize MD: https://optimizemd.health
Order Dr. Cassie’s Book ‘Fix Your Gut, Fix Your Hormones’: https://guthormonefix.com/
Use code LISTEN10 for 10 % off your order on shopmodernendocrine.com
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