Wellness and prevention

FAQ

1. What kinds of women's health services does One Medical provide?

   Our providers can help you with everything from Pap tests to guidance and counseling on birth control, breast cancer screening, and menopause. And of course we work closely with many of the best OB/GYN specialists in the area, should you ever need a referral.

2. Do I need to do anything special to book a women's health appointment?

   To schedule a Pap test, get tested for STDs, discuss contraception options, ask questions about menopause, or address any other non-pregnancy-related women’s health needs, please book an appointment with your primary care provider. Your primary care provider (PCP) can assess if further care is needed and can refer you to one of our in-house women’s health experts or an outside specialist as necessary.
   

   Please note that procedures and more complex consultations, including IUD insertions and removals, colposcopies, and prenatal care, need to be booked by a member of our administrative team, and some of these appointments are by internal referral only. If you’re not sure if you can book your appointment online, please feel free to give us a call at 415-523-6317. Our team is happy to help!

3. Why should I see a One Medical PCP rather than my OB/GYN?

   One Medical's primary care providers are trained to manage many women's health issues and answer common questions about topics such as preventative care, cancer screening, sexual health, aging, and pregnancy. Moreover, as your PCP, they understand your complete medical history and can approach your care from a broader perspective. And lastly, PCP visits are frequently more cost and time effective than specialist visits. Of course, if you need to see a specialist, our providers will ensure that you get connected with the right person.
   

   Learn more about how PCPs can more efficiently address many of your women’s health needs.

4. What's the difference between an OB/GYN and a family provider with experience in women's health?

   Ultimately, a family provider has a broad understanding of women’s health needs. Family doctors are trained in both obstetrics and gynecology, they can deliver babies and do most routine gynecological procedures. While most family doctors are not trained in cesarean sections, some may opt to receive additional training in this area.
   

   The big difference is that OB/GYNs are trained in surgery (and are technically surgeons), so they can perform procedures like fibroid and cyst removals.

5. I'm positive that I need to see a specialist, and my insurance requires a referral. Can One Medical help?

   Absolutely! Feel free to submit a referral request to your provider through your online One Medical account. Your PCP will review your request and, if appropriate, can refer you directly to a specialist, bypassing the additional office visit.

6. How does nutrition fit into primary care? What kinds of nutrition services do you provide?

   Healthy eating is a huge part of overall wellness, whether you're dealing with a chronic issue or are already in top shape. Studies have shown nutritional choices can reduce the risk of everything from heart disease and diabetes to obesity and osteoporosis. All of the experts at One Medical understand the value of healthy eating and the significant impact it can have on your overall well-being.

   All of our primary care providers can help you reach your optimal health by making dietary modifications that fit into the context of your life. They can help you:

   • Make healthier choices to manage a chronic disease like hypertension or high cholesterol
   • Optimize your everyday energy and focus through customized diet choices
   • Understand how food and lifestyle changes can support your care or sometimes serve as non-medicinal alternatives to other treatments

   Beyond the basics, our nutritionists can offer additional guidance around:

   • Various digestive disorders including IBS, Celiac disease, SIBO, and more
   • Elimination diets and food allergy management
   • Support - and, if necessary - referrals for eating disorder treatment

7. Are your providers nutritionists?

   All of our primary care providers are equipped to handle a wide variety of nutrition concerns and offer individualized plans and support. Our team of experts includes doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants with in-depth knowledge around integrating good nutrition into comprehensive health management.