Abqifm.com Review

Based on checking the website Abqifm.com, it presents itself as Albuquerque Family Medicine, offering “integrative medicine” services, which includes taking into account “spiritual and environmental factors” that affect health, and exploring “alternative healing modalities.” While the site emphasizes personalized care and holistic approaches, the mention of “integrative medicine” and “alternative healing modalities” raises concerns.

In an Islamic context, healthcare should adhere to established scientific practices and avoid any practices that may delve into unknown or potentially unverified spiritual claims that could border on practices outside of mainstream, evidence-based medicine.

This is particularly important when dealing with health, where clarity and verifiable methods are paramount.

Overall Review Summary:

• Website Focus: Integrative Family Medicine combining conventional and alternative approaches.
• Services Offered: TeleHealth/Video Visits, Concierge Care, Wellness & Preventive Care, Urgent Care, Chronic Disease Management, Specialty Care.
• Key Personnel: Dr. Marcus Higi and Dr. Cindy Griebler.
• Pricing Model: Concierge fee of $2000 per year plus tax, with children aged 3-26 free with a paying parent.
• Ethical Considerations: The use of “integrative medicine” and “alternative healing modalities” could involve practices that are not evidence-based or, in some interpretations, might align with concepts that are not permissible within Islamic guidelines for medical treatment, which prioritize proven scientific methods and avoid reliance on ambiguous “spiritual” interventions outside of a clear, religiously defined framework like Ruqyah from Quran and Sunnah.

The website provides a clean interface and clearly outlines its services and the doctors involved. It details a concierge medical practice model designed to offer more personalized and extended patient interactions. However, the core offering of “integrative medicine” and “alternative healing modalities” is the primary point of concern. While a holistic view of health mind, body is encouraged in Islam, venturing into unspecified “spiritual” or “alternative” treatments without clear, scientific backing can be problematic. A Muslim seeking healthcare should always prioritize treatments that are demonstrably safe, effective, and ethically sound, avoiding anything that might lead to superstition, unproven methods, or association with practices considered shirk associating partners with Allah or bid’ah innovation in religion. The site doesn’t clarify the specific alternative modalities, leaving a significant ambiguity.

Here are some established and ethical alternatives for comprehensive well-being, focusing on health and personal development within permissible boundaries:

• Kaiser Permanente: A well-known managed care organization in the U.S. offering integrated healthcare services, focusing on evidence-based medicine, preventive care, and comprehensive medical treatments.
• Mayo Clinic: A global leader in medical care, research, and education, providing expert opinions and advanced treatments across various medical specialties. It emphasizes patient-centered, scientifically validated care.
• Cleveland Clinic: Another highly respected academic medical center providing diverse medical services, renowned for its specialty care and commitment to research and patient outcomes.
• WebMD: While not a healthcare provider, WebMD is an excellent resource for health information, allowing individuals to research conditions, symptoms, and evidence-based treatments from reliable medical sources.
• MyFitnessPal: An app and website focused on nutrition and fitness tracking, promoting a healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise, which are foundational to physical well-being.
• Headspace: A leading meditation and mindfulness app. While mindfulness can be interpreted differently, focusing on cognitive exercises for stress reduction and mental clarity, it can be a permissible tool for mental well-being when not linked to spiritual practices outside of Islam.
• Audible: A platform for audiobooks, offering a vast library of educational content, self-help books, and Islamic lectures, which can contribute to intellectual and spiritual growth in an ethical manner.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Abqifm.com Review & First Look

When you first land on Abqifm.com, the immediate impression is one of professionalism and a clear focus on patient-centric care.

The website, representing “Albuquerque Family Medicine,” positions itself as a provider of “integrative medicine.” This concept, as described on their homepage, means considering “the physical, emotional, psychological, social, spiritual and environmental factors” that influence health. The doctors, Dr. Marcus Higi and Dr.

Cindy Griebler, are prominently featured, emphasizing a “holistic approach” and a commitment to “personalized approach to family medicine.” They also highlight a concierge care model, which is a significant aspect of their service delivery.

The site is relatively clean, easy to navigate, and uses clear language to explain its services.

It clearly articulates the shift towards a more comprehensive, time-intensive model of care, moving beyond the traditional 15-minute office visit.

This approach caters to patients seeking a deeper level of engagement with their healthcare providers.

• Initial Impression: Professional, patient-focused, emphasizing a holistic and personalized care model.
• Key Services Highlighted: TeleHealth/Video Visits, concierge medical practice.
• Doctor Profiles: Brief introductions to Dr. Higi and Dr. Griebler, outlining their philosophies.
• Accessibility: Commitment to accessibility and inclusion, utilizing the WP ADA Compliance Check plugin.
• Cookie Consent: Clear cookie consent management, indicating adherence to data privacy regulations.

The website also includes a “Patient Resources” section, suggesting that forms and other relevant information are available to streamline the patient experience.

The explicit mention of a concierge fee upfront, along with a detailed breakdown, demonstrates transparency regarding their pricing model.

Abqifm.com Pros & Cons

Based purely on the information presented on Abqifm.com’s homepage, one can identify several potential benefits and drawbacks, particularly from a perspective that values clarity, scientific grounding, and ethical practices.

Pros:

• Personalized Care: The concierge model promises extended visit times and a deeper understanding of patient needs, which can be a significant advantage for those seeking more individualized attention. This is a stark contrast to the often rushed traditional healthcare appointments. A 2017 study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine indicated that longer primary care visits were associated with improved quality of care for chronic conditions.
• Holistic Approach: The emphasis on considering physical, emotional, psychological, social, and environmental factors can lead to a more comprehensive understanding of a patient’s health challenges.
• Accessibility Features: The website’s commitment to accessibility, as evidenced by its use of the WP ADA Compliance Check plugin, is a positive step towards ensuring broad access to information.
• Transparency in Pricing: Clearly stating the $2000 annual concierge fee and its daily equivalent $5.89 upfront, along with the tax implication, provides financial transparency for potential patients. This level of clarity is often missing on many healthcare provider websites.
• TeleHealth Options: The availability of TeleHealth/Video Visits offers convenience and flexibility, especially crucial in modern healthcare where remote access is increasingly important. Data from the American Medical Association shows a significant surge in telehealth adoption, with over 80% of physicians now using telehealth, up from 14% in 2016.

Cons:

• Ambiguity of “Integrative Medicine” and “Alternative Healing Modalities”: This is the most significant concern. The website does not specify which alternative modalities are integrated. In some interpretations, “alternative healing” can encompass practices not backed by scientific evidence, or even those that might rely on superstitious or non-evidence-based methods. This lack of specificity makes it difficult for a patient to assess the legitimacy and scientific basis of the treatments offered. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health NCCIH, while exploring these areas, stresses the importance of evidence-based research for any complementary approaches. Without this clarification, it creates uncertainty.
• Cost Barrier: The $2000 annual concierge fee, while transparent, is a significant financial commitment. This model might exclude individuals with lower incomes or those who cannot afford such an investment, limiting access to their specialized care.
• Limited Information on Outcomes/Success Rates: The website provides a general promise of optimized wellness but lacks specific data or testimonials regarding patient outcomes or success rates for their integrative approach. While privacy is paramount in healthcare, general aggregated data or clearer explanations of what “optimized wellness” entails would be beneficial.
• No Explicit Mention of Insurance Acceptance: While concierge practices often operate outside traditional insurance models, explicitly addressing this on the homepage would help manage patient expectations. It is implied that the concierge fee covers the “integrative” aspect, but what about other medical services and how they interact with insurance?
• Potential for Misinterpretation of “Spiritual Factors”: While a holistic approach can include mental and emotional well-being, the term “spiritual factors” in a medical context can be ambiguous. Without further explanation, it could be misconstrued as involving practices that go beyond evidence-based care or delve into areas that might not align with a patient’s individual spiritual or religious beliefs, particularly if those beliefs emphasize scientific validation in medicine.

Abqifm.com Pricing

The pricing model for Abqifm.com is clearly articulated on its homepage, indicating a concierge care fee. Bitcoinsunrise.com Review

This is a distinguishing feature that sets it apart from traditional fee-for-service medical practices.

• Annual Concierge Fee: $2000 per year.
• Daily Cost Equivalent: $5.89 per day.
• Additional Tax: $152.50 per year applied to the concierge fee.
• Family Benefit: Children between the ages of 3 and 26 are included for free with a paying parent. This is a notable benefit for families, potentially making the concierge model more appealing for households with multiple children within that age bracket.

This fee structure indicates that Abqifm.com operates on a direct payment model for access to their enhanced services, allowing them to allocate more time per patient and presumably offer a more personalized experience. It’s important to note that this concierge fee typically covers access to the practice and its specific “integrative” services, but usually does not cover the cost of labs, imaging, specialist referrals, or emergency room visits, which would likely still be billed through traditional insurance or paid out-of-pocket. Potential patients should confirm these details directly with the practice to understand the full financial commitment. According to a 2019 report by the American Academy of Family Physicians, concierge medicine fees can range widely, often from $1,500 to $2,500 annually, putting Abqifm.com within this typical range.

Understanding Concierge Care at Abqifm.com

Concierge care is a model of healthcare where patients pay an annual or monthly fee for enhanced access and services from their primary care physician.

Abqifm.com clearly adopts this model, positioning it as a way to “go beyond traditional medicine.”

The Concierge Value Proposition

The website highlights several benefits of their concierge model:

• Extended Consultation Times: They promise to “take the time to fully understand your medical conditions and concerns beyond the typical rushed 15-minute office visit.” This is a key selling point for patients frustrated with short appointments.
• Care Coordination: For individuals with “complex medical situations” and multiple specialists, the doctors can “coordinate your care for the best possible outcomes.” This integrated approach can be invaluable in preventing fragmented care.
• Personalized Attention: The lower patient volume often associated with concierge practices allows for more individualized attention and a stronger patient-physician relationship.
• Proactive Health Management: The focus extends to “prevention and fostering healthy behaviors that last a lifetime,” indicating a more proactive rather than reactive approach to health.
• Dedicated Advocate: Patients gain “an experienced, dedicated family medicine advocate” if they develop a serious issue, implying personalized support during critical health events.

Who is Concierge Care For?

Abqifm.com states their practice “caters to people of nearly any age and every health condition.”

• Complex Medical Situations: Ideal for those seeing multiple specialists who need coordinated care.
• Minimal Health Issues: Also suitable for individuals who want to “maximize and sustain your good health” through preventive measures.

The concierge model is growing in popularity in the U.S.

According to a 2020 study by the American Academy of Private Physicians, there were over 10,000 concierge physicians in the U.S., a significant increase from just a few hundred in the early 2000s, driven by patient demand for more personalized care and physician desire for less administrative burden.

The Role of “Integrative Medicine” at Abqifm.com

The term “integrative medicine” is central to Abqifm.com’s identity, with both Dr. Higi and Dr.

Griebler identified as practitioners of this approach. Etiasfrance.com Review

The website defines it as considering the “physical, emotional, psychological, social, spiritual and environmental factors that affect your health.”

What is Integrative Medicine as presented by Abqifm.com?

• Holistic View: It’s presented as a comprehensive approach that looks at the whole person, rather than just isolated symptoms. This aligns with a broader understanding of health that includes mental, emotional, and social well-being alongside physical health.
• Emphasis on Deeper Causes: The practice aims to “address your immediate health problems, including deeper causes,” suggesting an investigative approach to chronic or complex conditions.
• Prevention and Healthy Behaviors: A strong focus on “prevention and fostering healthy behaviors that last a lifetime” underscores a commitment to long-term wellness rather than just treating acute illness.
• “Effective Natural Interventions”: The website mentions embracing “effective natural interventions that are less invasive whenever possible.” This phrasing is crucial as it suggests a preference for less aggressive treatments where appropriate.

Ambiguity and Ethical Considerations

The primary concern, as previously highlighted, lies in the unspecified nature of “alternative healing modalities” and “spiritual factors.” While a holistic approach to health that includes mental, emotional, and social aspects is entirely commendable and aligns with many positive health philosophies, the integration of “spiritual” elements or “alternative healing modalities” without clear, evidence-based descriptions raises questions.

• Lack of Specificity: The website doesn’t list or describe which “alternative healing modalities” are employed. This could range from evidence-backed practices like acupuncture or massage therapy when used for specific conditions with supporting research to less scientifically validated methods.
• “Spiritual Factors”: While a patient’s spiritual well-being can impact their overall health, directly integrating “spiritual factors” into a medical treatment plan by the physician without clear, scientific delineation can be problematic. In an Islamic context, medical treatment should rely on proven scientific methods, and “spiritual” interventions should strictly adhere to Islamic teachings e.g., Du’a, Ruqyah from the Quran and Sunnah, charity, not ambiguous “alternative healing modalities” that could potentially involve unverified or even superstitious practices. The World Health Organization WHO emphasizes evidence-based guidelines for traditional and complementary medicine, underscoring the need for scientific rigor.

For individuals seeking healthcare, especially within an ethical framework, it’s paramount that treatments are transparent, scientifically supported, and free from any elements that could be considered superstitious, idolatrous, or non-permissible.

Patients should thoroughly inquire about the specific methods used under “integrative medicine” to ensure they align with their values and a commitment to evidence-based care.

Abqifm.com Alternatives

Given the unique “integrative medicine” and concierge model offered by Abqifm.com, and considering the ambiguities around “alternative healing modalities,” finding direct, identical alternatives can be challenging.

However, for those seeking ethical, comprehensive, and patient-focused healthcare, several established alternatives provide robust, evidence-based services while upholding high standards of care.

These alternatives primarily focus on scientifically validated medical practices, ensuring patient safety and effective treatment.

Established Healthcare Systems Evidence-Based Focus:

• Kaiser Permanente: A prominent integrated managed care consortium in the United States, providing comprehensive medical care, including primary care, specialty services, and hospital care. Kaiser is known for its emphasis on preventive medicine and coordinated care, operating on a prepaid basis similar to a membership, but distinct from a concierge model. They focus on evidence-based practices.
  • Key Features: Integrated care, focus on prevention, comprehensive services.
  • Average Price: Varies based on health plan and region membership-based.
  • Pros: Coordinated care, strong preventive focus, broad network of providers.
  • Cons: Limited choice of providers outside the system, may require referrals for specialists.
• Mayo Clinic: A globally recognized non-profit academic medical center focused on integrated patient care, education, and research. Mayo Clinic is renowned for its diagnostic expertise, complex case management, and team-based approach to patient care, all firmly rooted in scientific evidence.
  • Key Features: World-class expertise, complex case management, research-driven care.
  • Average Price: Varies by service. generally high-cost but often covered by insurance for medically necessary treatments.
  • Pros: Top-tier medical care, highly skilled specialists, comprehensive diagnostics.
  • Cons: Can be expensive, may require travel for some patients, long wait times for appointments.
• Cleveland Clinic: Another highly acclaimed non-profit academic medical center, similar to Mayo Clinic, providing a wide range of medical services. Cleveland Clinic is particularly known for its heart and vascular institute but offers comprehensive care across many specialties, adhering to rigorous medical standards.
  • Key Features: Specialty expertise, patient-centered care, extensive research.
  • Average Price: Varies by service. generally high-cost but often covered by insurance.
  • Pros: Excellent reputation, cutting-edge treatments, multidisciplinary approach.
  • Cons: Similar to Mayo, can be costly and may require travel.

Digital Health & Wellness Platforms Ethical & Science-Backed:

For those seeking a proactive approach to wellness without venturing into ambiguous “alternative modalities,” these platforms offer ethical and science-backed tools for health management.

• MyFitnessPal: A popular app for tracking diet and exercise, MyFitnessPal promotes healthy living through calorie tracking, nutritional insights, and exercise logging. It’s a tool for personal responsibility in health, aligning with Islamic principles of moderation and caring for the body.
  • Key Features: Calorie and macronutrient tracking, exercise logging, large food database, community support.
  • Average Price: Free basic version. Premium subscription for advanced features ~$9.99/month.
  • Pros: Empowers individuals to manage diet/exercise, easy to use, extensive features.
  • Cons: Requires self-discipline, free version has ads, not a substitute for medical advice.
• Headspace: While many mindfulness apps exist, Headspace focuses on meditation and mindfulness techniques for stress reduction, improved focus, and better sleep. When viewed as a cognitive tool for mental well-being rather than a spiritual practice, it can be a permissible way to manage stress and improve mental clarity.
  • Key Features: Guided meditations, sleep stories, focus exercises, mindfulness courses.
  • Average Price: Free limited content. Premium subscription ~$12.99/month or $69.99/year.
  • Pros: Reduces stress, improves focus, accessible from anywhere, evidence-based benefits for mental health.
  • Cons: Some may find the spiritual undertones ambiguous, requires consistent practice.
• Audible: As an audiobook platform, Audible offers a vast library of educational content, including books on health, science, personal development, and Islamic knowledge. It’s an excellent resource for continuous learning and self-improvement in an ethical manner.
  • Key Features: Wide selection of audiobooks, podcasts, original content, offline listening.
  • Average Price: Free trial. subscription plans ~$14.95/month for one credit.
  • Pros: Convenient learning, vast library, promotes intellectual growth.
  • Cons: Subscription cost, requires self-motivation to engage with content.
• Fitbit: A popular wearable technology brand that tracks physical activity, sleep, and heart rate. Fitbit devices encourage a healthier lifestyle by providing data-driven insights into daily habits, promoting movement and awareness of one’s physical state.
  • Key Features: Activity tracking steps, distance, calories, sleep tracking, heart rate monitoring, smart notifications.
  • Average Price: Devices range from $70 to $300+. premium subscription available $9.99/month.
  • Pros: Motivates physical activity, provides health insights, user-friendly.
  • Cons: Requires a device purchase, data interpretation can be overwhelming for some.

When considering healthcare, it’s always best to choose providers and resources that are transparent about their methods, grounded in scientific evidence, and align with one’s personal values, ensuring both effective treatment and peace of mind.

How to Get in Touch with Abqifm.com

The Abqifm.com website provides clear instructions for contacting their office, which is essential for potential patients looking to learn more or schedule a visit. Myparktowers.com Review

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 505 226-2300
• Purpose: To ask questions or schedule a free 30-minute meeting with Dr. Higi or Dr. Griebler.

The offer of a “free 30-minute meeting” is a smart move, allowing prospective patients to understand the concierge model and the integrative approach before committing to the annual fee.

This initial consultation provides a low-stakes opportunity for both parties to assess compatibility, which is crucial for a concierge relationship built on trust and personalized care.

This practice aligns with common business development strategies in service-oriented sectors, where an initial free consultation is offered to build rapport and demonstrate value.

Website Accessibility:

The website also highlights a commitment to accessibility, stating: “The owner of this website has made a commitment to accessibility and inclusion, please report any problems that you encounter using the contact form on this website.

This site uses the WP ADA Compliance Check plugin to enhance accessibility.” This indicates a dedication to making their digital presence usable for a wider audience, including those with disabilities.

However, no direct “contact form” link was immediately visible on the homepage text provided, which might be a navigational point for improvement.

Typically, a dedicated “Contact Us” page or a prominent form link would be expected.

FAQ

What is Abqifm.com?

Abqifm.com is the website for Albuquerque Family Medicine, a medical practice in Albuquerque, New Mexico, that offers concierge family medicine with an integrative and holistic approach to healthcare.

What services does Abqifm.com offer?

Abqifm.com offers TeleHealth/Video Visits, concierge care, wellness and preventive care, urgent care, chronic disease management, and specialty care, all within an integrative medicine framework.

Who are the doctors at Abqifm.com?

The primary doctors featured on Abqifm.com are Dr. Marcus Higi and Dr. Fastify.cc Review

Cindy Griebler, both described as practitioners of integrative medicine.

What is “integrative medicine” as practiced by Abqifm.com?

Abqifm.com defines integrative medicine as an approach that considers physical, emotional, psychological, social, spiritual, and environmental factors affecting health, aiming for personalized and holistic wellness.

What is the concierge care fee at Abqifm.com?

The concierge care fee at Abqifm.com is $2000 per year, plus an additional $152.50 in tax per year.

Are children included in the Abqifm.com concierge fee?

Yes, children between the ages of 3 and 26 are free with a paying parent under the Abqifm.com concierge care model.

How does Abqifm.com’s concierge model differ from traditional medicine?

Abqifm.com’s concierge model promises longer appointment times, more personalized care, care coordination for complex cases, and a focus on prevention, moving beyond the typical rushed 15-minute office visits.

Does Abqifm.com offer telehealth services?

Yes, Abqifm.com offers TeleHealth/Video Visits, allowing patients to consult with Dr. Higi or Dr. Griebler from their homes.

What are the main concerns with Abqifm.com’s approach?

The main concern is the ambiguity surrounding the “alternative healing modalities” and “spiritual factors” mentioned, as the website does not specify the exact nature or scientific basis of these practices.

Is Abqifm.com suitable for individuals with complex medical conditions?

Yes, Abqifm.com states that their practice caters to people with complex medical situations, offering care coordination for those seeing multiple specialists.

What kind of “natural interventions” does Abqifm.com embrace?

Abqifm.com generally states they embrace “effective natural interventions that are less invasive” whenever possible, but specific examples are not provided on the homepage.

How can I schedule a meeting with Abqifm.com?

You can contact the Abqifm.com office at 505 226-2300 to schedule a free 30-minute meeting with Dr. Higi or Dr. Griebler. Aipusolidcontrol.com Review

Does Abqifm.com accept health insurance?

The website’s homepage does not explicitly state whether it accepts health insurance for the concierge fee or other medical services.

It is implied that the concierge fee is a direct payment for access to their enhanced services.

What are some ethical alternatives to Abqifm.com for healthcare?

Ethical alternatives include established healthcare systems like Kaiser Permanente, Mayo Clinic, and Cleveland Clinic, which focus on evidence-based medicine, and digital wellness platforms like MyFitnessPal for healthy lifestyle management.

Why is the ambiguity of “integrative medicine” a concern?

The ambiguity is a concern because unspecified “alternative healing modalities” or “spiritual factors” could potentially include practices that are not evidence-based, or could even conflict with established scientific and ethical guidelines for medical treatment.

Is there a free trial for Abqifm.com’s services?

The website mentions a “free 30-minute meeting” with a doctor, which serves as an introductory consultation but not a free trial of their full concierge services.

Does Abqifm.com have patient resources available online?

Yes, Abqifm.com mentions a “Patient Resources” section where patients can find forms and other relevant information.

What is the daily cost equivalent for Abqifm.com’s concierge service?

The daily cost equivalent for Abqifm.com’s concierge service is $5.89 per day, in addition to the annual tax amount.

How does Abqifm.com address website accessibility?

Abqifm.com states a commitment to accessibility and inclusion, using the WP ADA Compliance Check plugin to enhance accessibility and encouraging users to report problems via their contact form.

What is the philosophy of Dr. Marcus Higi at Abqifm.com?

Dr.

Marcus Higi states his philosophy is to focus on the “art of family medicine in a care model that recognizes the connection between mind, body and spirit,” particularly after turning 50. Thetraderchoice.com Review