Precision Medicine at Gingko: studies in the "N of 1"
From early in clinical training, Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) demonstrated patient-specific care. One symptom has a myriad of physiological etiologies, endemic to each person. Rarely is there a common mechanism for a common symptom. Layers of educational pursuit and decades of patient interaction later, one commonality has rung true: There is nothing as effective clinically as the "N of 1" study.
The “N of 1” in research is the concept in which we are each our own “control”.
Applying population data to clinical care often misses the mark. We each have a unique “fingerprint” physiologically. In the N of 1, outcomes are repeatedly measured, compared over time and intervention, in how a treatment works for that specific patient (rather than a group).
At Gingko, our care operates through a multi-modal lens. We target levers to inform YOUR unique physiology. There are no protocols.
From hormone family assessment (estrogens, progesterone + its metabolites, "stress" hormones and androgens), to GI analysis, and onto genetic predispositions (inclusive of lifestyle factors which may inform gene expression), we build a clinical foundation.
We superimpose this data upon physical exam, blood testing and a TCM diagnostic paradigm. We expose your physiology's blueprint.
This is Ginkgo's precision medicine.
Can patients get protocol-based HRT with no testing/follow up from other providers? More and more they can. We are so glad patients have options! Not long ago, these tools were withheld from women, based on poorly interpreted population-based science (looking at you, the Women's health initiative of 2002..)
However, our model is distinct. We serve the patient compelled by her “N of 1” study. We aren't for every patient or meant to replace conventional skill set. We know just who to refer you to for that routine colonoscopy, a calcium artery scan, and the best in-home massage therapy around.
What WE do is clinical detective work.
We preview how a patient assimilates hormones BEFORE we add them to her system. We consider how care will impact her today, in a quarter, and with as much relevance — in 20 years.
This lens has focused our extracurricular pursuits educationally.
So far in 2025:
Rachel completed her Certification as a Functional Medicine clinician (CFMC) through the prestigious Kharrazian Institute. Far more than new letters behind a name, having studied Functional medicine for decades, we aim to reside at the cutting-edge. Both diagnostically and in the therapies we offer. Most importantly to address your health rigorously.
Alyssa undertook the Monarch Health Clinician Mentorship, which provided a nuanced, and personalized approach to peri & menopausal hormone therapy and midlife concerns. This course deepened Alyssa's knowledge and passion for utilizing hormone therapy. She also completed the A4M Metabolic Health Workshop, which focused on clinical testing and tools to strengthen metabolic health and weight management.
We both have ongoing coursework. Rachel remains in process with her doctorate (focus: integrative medicine) to terminate spring 2026.
Learning, whether didactic or from you ABOUT you, is the foundation for everything we do.
We do not take your confidence, or the unique signature of your physiology, lightly.
Warmly, Rachel Schaefer LAc FABORM