How much does functional medicine cost in the UK, and is it worth it?
Understand functional medicine fees, testing costs and what personalised care includes, with clear prices for Charmaine Shepherd's Edinburgh clinic.
- Updated
- 3 min read
- By Charmaine Shepherd, IFM Certified Practitioner
Functional medicine fees vary according to the practitioner, time and support included. At my clinic, the initial consultation with health coaching costs £354, and follow-ups cost £264. Testing is separate. The value lies in a detailed assessment, clear priorities and support to act on the findings.
If you have already spent money on supplements, tests or treatments without a clear plan, it is reasonable to ask what would be different this time.
I want you to understand the costs and how each part of the work contributes to your care before you commit.
How much does functional medicine cost in the UK?
There is no single national fee. Appointment length, qualifications, preparation, report writing and ongoing support all affect pricing.
Compare what you receive as well as the headline amount. A consultation that includes a detailed review and health coaching is a different service from a short appointment to discuss one test.
What do I charge?
| Service | Fee | What’s included |
|---|---|---|
| Discovery call | Free | Up to 20 minutes to discuss your needs and the approach |
| Initial consultation | £354 | 75-minute consultation, 60-minute coaching session, written report and plan, two email check-ins |
| Return consultation | £264 | 50-minute review, results discussion and an updated plan |
| Wellness Package | £899 | Initial consultation and coaching plus three follow-ups; saving £247 |
| Carotid artery scan | £456 | Scan and report as part of the clinic assessment |
Testing and supplements are separate. See fees for the current details before booking.
How much do functional tests cost?
Costs depend on the question and panel. Standard blood markers, comprehensive stool tests, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) breath tests, hormone metabolite panels and metabolic assessments have different prices.
I explain what each proposed test could add and provide the cost before ordering. We can often stage investigations, starting with the most useful questions and building on the results.
How many appointments will I need?
That depends on the complexity of your health and the support you need. Long-standing symptoms usually benefit from continuity over several months, with time to implement changes and review their effect.
We agree the next review around your priorities, results and capacity. There is no fixed number that fits everyone.
How can I keep costs down?
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Bring previous results so we can use the information you already have.
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Prioritise testing and ask how each result would influence the plan.
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Use available NHS investigations where appropriate.
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Stage changes and supplement recommendations around your budget.
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Consider a package if you expect to need several reviews.
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Check insurance cover directly with your provider.
Tell me if cost is a concern. A plan needs to be financially manageable as well as clinically useful.
Is functional medicine worth it?
It may be valuable when you want a detailed assessment of persistent symptoms, several interacting health problems or preventive health risks.
The aim is to replace repeated guesswork with a clearer understanding and a practical course of action. That can include identifying deficiencies, reviewing patterns in blood results, investigating digestion and supporting hormonal or metabolic health.
An assessment cannot guarantee a diagnosis, cure or specific outcome. We discuss what progress would mean for you and review whether the work is delivering it.
How to judge value
Ask about the practitioner’s training, what the fee includes, likely additional costs and how progress is reviewed. Look for clear explanations and a plan you can realistically follow.
Read How to choose the right functional medicine practitioner.
Common questions
Is functional medicine available on the NHS?
These consultations are offered privately. Some investigations and treatments may be available through your NHS care.
Does health insurance cover functional medicine?
Cover varies. Check the service and practitioner with your insurer before booking; acupuncture may be covered separately.
Why are functional medicine tests so expensive?
Specialist panels may use multiple assays and overseas laboratories. The important question is whether the information is useful enough to justify the cost in your case.
Is the Wellness Package better value?
If you need the included follow-ups, it saves £247 compared with separate bookings. We can discuss whether that level of support suits you.
Have questions about cost or where to start? Book a free discovery call.
Sources
Ferritin “normal” but still exhausted? How to read your iron results
Normal vs optimal: 5 blood test ranges explained
Why am I always tired? 10 causes a standard blood test can miss
This article is for general information and isn't a substitute for personal medical advice. Please don't start or stop any medication without speaking to your GP or prescriber.