A critical first step in getting better clinical outcomes is carefully evaluating the extent of damage caused by digestive irritation, poor immune health, stress, and inflammation and pinpointing the nutrient deficiencies that must be addressed. A thorough assessment covering all systems can be done one-on-one as part of the initial consultation. While this does take a good bit of time, it is a good way for the practitioner to get to know the patient’s individual needs.

A validated assessment tool can be incorporated into your initial assessment to augment, rather than replace, that initial one-on-one time with the practitioner. By using a tool such as the HAQ (Health Assessment Questionnaire) as part of the initial visit you will be better able to see the big picture and then narrow in on the areas of greatest concern during the initial consultation.

In addition to supporting your initial patient consultation/assessment, the HAQ offered by PERQUE Integrative Health also helps inform your supplement recommendations for each patient. Whether you choose PERQUE brand or generic interpretation, you will be getting a comprehensive nutritional and lifestyle program recommendation.

Getting your patients started.

The HAQ document is included with every hsLRA test kit. To make the HAQ part of the initial consultation, have the patient complete the form prior to his/her first appointment. If you typically mail new patients any information before their first visit, just include the HAQ as required initial paperwork. The questionnaire only takes about 15 minutes to complete so having the patient do it in the office is also an option.

HAQ Interpretation.

Include, or have the patient include, the completed HAQ along with their hsLRA blood sample. The HAQ Interpretation will be included in the hsLRA test results. As the ordering practitioner you decide if you want the interpretation to recommend specific PERQUE brand supplements or generic (no brand name) supplements.

Review of Findings.

The hsLRA results report contains a wealth of information for you to review with your patients. The follow-up visit to review the results can include just the immune-reactive items or can encompass the entire treatment program, including the supplement and lifestyle recommendations. You also have the option of consulting with our staff Clinical Nutritionist or having your patients consult directly with the nutritionist.

Alternative HAQ Option.

If identifying individual inflammatory triggers is not needed and therefore no hsLRA test ordered, the HAQ can be still utilized. An online version of the HAQ allows you to send a link to your patients to complete the questionnaire. The interpretation, complete with PERQUE brand supplement recommendations, will automatically be emailed to you. The report can then be reviewed with the patient at the next visit.