FAQs
Answers to help you feel confident about your care.
Treatment & Conditions
Can functional medicine help with chronic fatigue or low energy?
Yes. Chronic fatigue is often linked to hormonal imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, thyroid dysfunction, or poor metabolic function. Dr. Fest conducts comprehensive lab work and assessments to identify the root cause of your fatigue and build a targeted treatment plan specific to your body.
Does your practice treat hormonal imbalances?
Yes. We offer complete hormone analysis and personalised therapy for both men and women experiencing fatigue, weight gain, mood changes, and other symptoms of hormonal disruption. Treatment is medically monitored and adjusted based on your results and response.
Can you help with weight loss if other programs have not worked?
Our medical weight loss program goes beyond calorie counting. We assess your metabolic health, nutritional gaps, lifestyle patterns, and hormonal factors that may be preventing results. Where clinically appropriate, prescription support is also available.
Do you treat allergies and food sensitivities?
Yes. We offer complete allergy testing including skin testing and bloodwork, along with personalised immunotherapy programs for both environmental and food-related allergies.
Is testosterone replacement therapy available for women as well as men?
Yes. Testosterone imbalance affects both men and women. We provide individually designed hormone optimisation therapy for all adults experiencing symptoms of hormonal decline, always under close medical supervision.
What skin and aesthetic treatments do you offer?
We provide laser therapy services for skin rejuvenation, hair removal, scar treatment, and cosmetic enhancement. All procedures are performed with medical precision in a clinical setting.
What to Expect / Safety
What happens at my first appointment?
Your first visit includes a full review of your health history, a discussion of your current symptoms and wellness goals, a physical examination where needed, and a review of any past labs or records. We use this information to begin building your personalised care plan before you leave.
How is functional medicine different from a regular doctor visit?
Traditional primary care focuses on diagnosing and treating symptoms. Functional medicine goes further by identifying the underlying cause of those symptoms, whether related to nutrition, hormones, stress, metabolism, or environment. We address the root of the problem, not just the surface presentation.
Is IV therapy safe, and what is it used for?
IV nutrient therapy is administered in our clinic under medical supervision. It is used to support hydration, immune function, energy, recovery, and general wellness. Each infusion is tailored to your individual health needs and goals.
Are functional medicine treatments evidence based?
Yes. Dr. Fest integrates evidence-based clinical protocols with functional and integrative approaches. Every recommendation is grounded in clinical science and adapted to your specific health data and history.
How long does it take to see results?
Results vary depending on the condition being treated and the complexity of your health history. Some patients notice changes within a few weeks. Others working on deeper chronic issues may require a longer course of care. We set realistic timelines during your initial visit and track progress through regular follow-ups.
Is this practice suitable for teenagers?
Yes. Our New York practice sees adults and teenagers aged 14 and older. Adolescent patients receive age-appropriate care with the same level of thoroughness applied to all patients.
Appointments / Payments / Insurance
Do you accept insurance?
We accept most major insurance plans for eligible primary care services. Functional medicine services are cash-based, and insurance is not accepted for functional medicine care. Our team will explain functional medicine pricing and available payment options before you schedule or begin treatment.
Are same-day appointments available?
Yes. Same-day appointments are available for urgent primary care needs, subject to availability. We also offer morning, afternoon, and select evening slots to accommodate work schedules and family commitments.
Can I book an appointment online?
Yes. Appointments can be scheduled online through our booking system or by calling our office directly. New patients are always welcome.
Do you offer telemedicine visits?
Established patients can access select services via telemedicine. Contact our office to find out which services are available virtually and how to set up a telehealth visit.
How do I transfer my medical records from a previous provider?
Our team handles the records transfer process. You will need to sign a release form, and we will coordinate directly with your former provider to obtain your records ahead of your appointment.
What are the payment options for services not covered by insurance?
For functional medicine services, specialised lab panels, and wellness treatments, we offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Payment plan options are available, and our staff will explain all costs clearly before any service is provided. Functional medicine services are provided on a cash-pay basis and are not billed to insurance.
Other Common Questions
Do I need a referral to become a patient?
No referral is required. You can contact us directly to schedule a new patient appointment for primary care, functional medicine, or any of our specialised wellness services.
Can I use this practice as my primary care doctor and also receive functional medicine care?
Yes. Our hybrid practice model is designed for exactly that. We provide continuity of care through traditional primary care while also offering in-depth functional medicine services, all under one roof with one provider who knows your full health history.
Which areas do you serve beyond Staten Island?
We serve patients from across the New York area, including Brooklyn, Manhattan, New Jersey communities near Staten Island, and all five boroughs. Our location on Hylan Boulevard is accessible and easy to reach from surrounding areas.
What should I bring to my first visit?
Bring a valid photo ID, your insurance card, a list of any current medications or supplements, and any recent lab results or medical records you have access to. If you have records from a previous provider, we can also request those on your behalf.
Is Dr. Fest a medical doctor?
Dr. Marina Fest holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and is a doctoral-level provider with specialised training in both primary care and functional medicine. She operates with a patient-first philosophy and delivers evidence-based, individualised care to every patient.
How do I get started?
Call our office at +1 347 222 9107 or book online. New patients are welcome, and our team will guide you through the intake process and answer any questions before your first visit.