Clinical Policy

At 1st Optimal, we are committed to providing the highest standard of care to our patients. Our clinical policies and practices are designed to ensure that all treatments and services are evidence-based, safe, and effective. This page outlines our clinical policy regarding hormone therapy, prescription services, and our approach to personalized healthcare.

1. Medical Supervision

At 1st Optimal, we prioritize the health and safety of our patients. All treatments are prescribed and overseen by licensed medical professionals, including doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. We maintain the highest level of supervision throughout the treatment process, ensuring that each patient receives personalized, expert care.

2. Initial Consultation and Assessment

Before beginning any treatment program, patients must undergo an initial consultation with a healthcare provider. This consultation includes:

• A thorough review of your medical history
• Comprehensive lab testing to assess baseline hormone levels and health markers
• A detailed discussion of your symptoms, goals, and treatment options

Based on the results of this consultation, our healthcare providers will develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

3. Evidence-Based Treatment Protocols

1st Optimal utilizes scientifically-backed protocols to ensure that all treatments are safe and effective. We focus on hormone optimization therapies, including testosterone replacement, and other targeted interventions based on the patient’s unique needs. We rely on clinical data and the latest medical research to guide our treatment strategies, ensuring that all therapies are supported by reputable evidence.

4. Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments

Throughout the course of treatment, regular check-ins and follow-up assessments are essential to ensure optimal outcomes. This includes:

• Family and personal health history intake
• Symptomatology, social, exercise, and lifestyle review
• Regular blood tests to monitor hormone levels and overall health
• Adjustments to treatment protocols as necessary based on test results and patient feedback
• Ongoing support from our healthcare team to address any concerns or questions

Our goal is to continuously optimize treatment to ensure the best possible results for each individual.

5. Confidentiality and Data Protection

1st Optimal is committed to maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of our patients’ health information. All medical records and personal data are stored securely and are only accessible by authorized healthcare providers. We comply with all relevant privacy laws and regulations, including HIPAA, to ensure your information remains private and protected.

6. Treatment Discontinuation

In some cases, patients may choose to discontinue treatment. 1st Optimal supports patient autonomy, and any decision to stop treatment will be respected. If treatment is discontinued, we will work with you to ensure a safe transition and provide guidance on how to manage your health moving forward.

7. Informed Consent

We believe in empowering patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare. As part of our commitment to informed consent, we provide clear, transparent information about all treatment options, potential risks, and benefits before starting any program. Patients are encouraged to ask questions and seek clarification as needed to make the best decision for their health.

8. Telemedicine Services

1st Optimal offers convenient telemedicine consultations to ensure patients can access care from the comfort of their home. Our virtual consultations allow patients to meet with healthcare providers, review test results, discuss treatment options, and receive prescriptions in a secure, private manner.

9. Quality Assurance and Safety

Patient safety is a top priority at 1st Optimal. We continually review and update our clinical policies to align with the latest medical standards and guidelines. We also participate in ongoing professional development to ensure our healthcare providers are up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field of hormone therapy and general healthcare.

10. Disclaimer

The information provided on this website, including any treatment protocols, is for informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice or a substitute for professional consultation with a healthcare provider. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any treatment.

1st Optimal ensures that patients are well-informed on how to correctly and safely administer their treatments through a comprehensive, multi-step process:

Physician Consultation and Step-by-Step Instruction:

During the initial physician consultation, our medical providers offer thorough, step-by-step instructions on the proper technique for administering treatments. This includes guidance on selecting the injection site, preparing the medication, the correct way to use the needle or pen device, and how to dispose of supplies safely. Our providers also review common mistakes and how to avoid them, ensuring that patients feel confident and informed.

Demonstrations and Visual Aids:

When necessary, our providers use visual aids or demonstrations to reinforce proper injection techniques. This helps ensure that patients understand each step of the process and can replicate it at home.

Follow-Up Phone Call and Email Support:

After the consultation, we provide a follow-up phone call and an instructional email summarizing the steps for proper injection. The email includes additional resources, such as instructional videos or diagrams, and encourages patients to reach out with any further questions. This follow-up ensures that patients feel supported throughout their treatment journey.

Clear Dosing Instructions from Partner Pharmacy:

When the prescription is filled, our partner pharmacy provides clear and detailed dosing instructions on the prescription label and packaging. These instructions serve as a reinforcement of the physician’s guidance and help ensure that patients are administering their treatments correctly.

By combining thorough consultation, follow-up communication, and clear labeling from our trusted pharmacy partner, 1st Optimal ensures that patients are well-educated on the safe and effective self-administration of their treatments.

How do physicians restore balance and address low testosterone?

Hormone optimization is the process of measuring hormone levels and, when necessary, implementing treatment plans that may involve lifestyle adjustments, supplements, and/or medications to restore hormone levels to an optimal range. Since each body is unique, the “ideal” level varies from person to person. Our licensed medical professionals, with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating hormone imbalances, work with you to determine the right course of action for your individual needs.

Some clinics may treat patients already within a normal range, but at 1st Optimal, our licensed physicians only prescribe testosterone to men who are clinically diagnosed with low testosterone and are experiencing symptoms.

Does 1st Optimal favor any particular treatment approach?

No. The physicians at 1st Optimal take a personalized approach to treatment. Before recommending any plan, they thoroughly review your medical history, family background, symptoms, fertility goals, lab results, age, and more.

Once your evaluation is complete, your physician will design a tailored treatment plan, which may include lifestyle recommendations (such as improvements to diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management), supplements, and/or medications.

We believe in educating our patients on lifestyle changes and guiding them to incorporate these changes into their daily routines. Every patient is different, and the physician will determine the most appropriate treatment approach, if any.

Our patient base ranges from 25 to 80 years old, and it’s the responsibility of our licensed physicians to decide what treatment is most appropriate for each individual.

Can I naturally optimize my hormones?

Before turning to medication, several lifestyle changes may help improve hormone imbalances. These include:

• Getting 7-8 hours of sleep each night
• Regular physical activity
• Reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption
• Exploring hormone-balancing supplements
• Getting daily sunlight exposure

If you’re looking for additional guidance on how to implement these changes, we’ll soon be offering a free course designed to help you. If you’ve already tried these strategies but are still experiencing symptoms, consulting with a licensed physician who specializes in hormone health could be the next step for you.

Because every patient’s situation is unique—taking into account biological, environmental, and psychological factors—only the physician can determine whether medication, in addition to lifestyle modifications, is necessary.

For Men: Will a licensed physician at 1st Optimal prescribe testosterone to anyone?

No. Testosterone will only be prescribed when medically appropriate, as evaluated by a licensed physician following evidence-based clinical guidelines. Before prescribing testosterone, the following criteria must be met:

• A clinical diagnosis of low testosterone (hypogonadism), based on medical history, symptoms, lab results, and assessments such as the qADAM questionnaire, along with a one-on-one video consultation.
• Comprehensive lab testing to assess testosterone levels, free testosterone, SHBG, albumin, LH, estradiol, ALT, AST, HCT, PSA, and others.
• A discussion of your fertility goals.
• A review of the risks and benefits of testosterone therapy, along with your willingness to move forward with the treatment.
• A commitment to follow-up testing and consultations on a recurring basis to monitor health outcomes.
• A willingness to make necessary lifestyle changes (such as improving sleep, losing weight, reducing alcohol or tobacco use, committing to exercise, and a healthy activity regimen.)

Are physicians incentivized to recommend specific treatments?

No. The physicians at 1st Optimal work for an independent, physician-owned medical group, and they are not financially incentivized to recommend any specific treatment. They are compensated for completing consultations, but their compensation does not vary based on patient diagnoses or prescriptions. All medical decisions are made solely by the physicians based on the best interest of the patient.

Do physicians explain the risks and benefits of medications?

Yes. Our physicians are well-versed in the risks and benefits of the medications they prescribe. They make sure to thoroughly explain these during your consultation, and you will need to provide your consent before any medication is prescribed.

For Men: Can I still have children if I undergo hormone optimization treatment?

If fertility is a concern for you, it’s important to discuss it with your physician. Testosterone therapy can sometimes affect fertility, as it may lower sperm production. However, there are alternative treatment options that can help optimize testosterone levels while preserving fertility. Your physician will go over these options with you before determining a treatment plan.

If testosterone therapy is chosen, there are also ways to stimulate your body’s natural sperm production during treatment. Your physician will provide detailed guidance and monitor your progress to minimize the impact on fertility, along with fertility testing options as requested.

For Men: If I choose testosterone therapy, do I have to be on it forever?

The need for testosterone therapy depends on several factors, including your age, health, lifestyle, and goals. Testosterone therapy is used to address a deficiency, and depending on the cause, it may be required long-term (like medications for chronic conditions such as hypertension or diabetes) or short-term.

Long-term use of testosterone may suppress natural production, but if you later decide to stop therapy, your physician may help taper your dose and introduce other treatments to stimulate natural testosterone production. This process may take several months and will require your consent before starting.

Some patients remain on hormone optimization for years, while others successfully transition off treatment. Your physician will work with you to determine the best course of action based on your individual situation.

What’s Next for 1st Optimal?

At 1st Optimal, our vision extends far beyond just hormone optimization. While hormones are a key piece of the puzzle, they’re just one part of the larger picture of health. We are committed to expanding into new therapeutic areas, including behavior modification around diet, exercise, and mental well-being. Our goal is to become the comprehensive health optimization platform that supports your entire life, helping you achieve better health, longevity, and overall vitality.

For additional questions regarding clinical philosophies, medical licensure, and credentials, please contact us below.