Dr. Mary Regan’s services have expanded since forming Functional Health of Lancaster in 2021, but her mission to uncover the underlying causes of dysfunction that lead to health ailments, while empowering patients to take active roles in their health care journeys, has stayed the same.

Her whole body medicine approach focuses on physical chronic conditions and incorporates complementary practices such as mind-body therapy to target emotional and spiritual wellness. Regan, who holds a doctorate in nursing practice from the York College of Pennsylvania School of Nursing and Health Professions, became a certified functional medicine provider through the Institute for Functional Medicine in 2022.

She recently completed a certification course in infertility and training in intravenous (IV) supplement therapy, and added two functional health nutritionists to her staff. “All of our providers at Functional Health of Lancaster have graduate degrees and specialized interests in certain health conditions,” Regan notes. Those interests range from post-traumatic stress disorder and insomnia to autoimmunity, gastrointestinal complaints, hormonal health and neurologic issues.

Regan has added IV supplement therapy to quickly deliver vitamins, minerals and nutrients to the body, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract and allowing direct absorption by the cells. IV therapy can rehydrate the body, boost energy and relieve physical and mental stress. A dedicated infusion nurse evaluates each patient prior to their appointment to ensure they are healthy candidates for this therapy.

Regan uses a combination of functional approaches such as specialized testing, bioidentical hormone therapy, thermography, relaxation techniques, nutraceuticals, adaptogens, botanicals, customized compounding and conventional medical therapies. An optional primary care membership plan serves patients seeking a hybrid approach between conventional and holistic health care.

A large component of Regan’s services involves health coaching for lifestyle and nutritional recommendations. This helps patients play an active role in their health outcomes. She observes that most chronic ailments are the result of poor health choices. “I tell my patients that we want to partner with you. Our patients are in the driver’s seat, and they need to contribute to their health, as well. We develop a partnership that’s therapeutic, with mutual respect on both sides,” she explains. “They have the power and the choice to make positive lifestyle decisions.”

Patients at Functional Health of Lancaster have access to complementary services such as health coaching and yoga therapy to build resiliency as they develop positive eating habits, organizational skills and mental clarity—all tools that can support a long-term health regimen. Regan acknowledges that change can be difficult, but the reward of leading a more vibrant, healthful life can make it all worthwhile. “It can be hard to see the other side of a mountain when you’re looking up from the base. In the beginning, change can be very uncomfortable, but you have to be uncomfortable to get comfortable.”

Services through Functional Health of Lancaster are available in person or via telehealth visits. There are service packages available for different needs and budgets. Regan and her staff are always eager to help anyone with a desire to change their health for the better—especially those that want a healthier beginning to a new year. “I really value the patients that seek out our services, and I am encouraged by the positive feedback that our services are helping many people,” she says. “I’m motivated to make my community a healthier place, and to be the good change in a seemingly unbending conventional medical world.”

Functional Health of Lancaster will host their second annual holiday party from 5 to 8 p.m., December 7. The public is invited to stop by and learn about the practice and available services, gain insights to functional medicine approaches and enter a drawing to win gift cards for services.  Food and beverages will be provided.