What it is
A first visit to a regenerative medicine clinic is usually a conversation and an evaluation, not a treatment appointment. The goal is for a licensed clinician to learn about your health, understand your concerns, and decide whether further steps make sense at all.
The cellular therapy intake process often begins before you arrive. Many clinics ask you to complete health history forms, list medications and supplements, and share prior records such as imaging or notes from other providers.
A candidacy evaluation is the part of the visit where the clinician considers whether you may be an appropriate fit for any option, including the option of not pursuing cellular therapy. Being evaluated does not mean you will be offered or recommended a treatment.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Traditionally, any medical visit follows a familiar pattern: history, discussion of symptoms, a physical exam, and sometimes testing or imaging. A first visit at a regenerative medicine clinic generally follows this same structure.
Conventional approaches for many of the concerns people bring to these clinics, such as joint or sports-related complaints, have often included rest, physical therapy, medications, injections, or surgery, depending on the situation and a clinician's judgment. Many people ask about cellular options in addition to, or after, exploring these.
It is important to know the regulatory landscape. Most cellular and stem-cell-marketed products used for joints, sports injuries, back pain, skin or hair are not FDA-approved for those uses. A responsible clinic should be open about which product it uses and what its FDA status is.
How the right provider may help
The right provider may help by taking time to listen, reviewing your history, and explaining your options in plain language. A visit is generally a chance to ask questions and understand what is known, what is uncertain, and what alternatives exist. It is not a promise of any result.
Consider bringing a short list of questions. You might ask: What exactly is the product, and where does it come from? What is its FDA status for my concern? What are the possible risks and unknowns? What would the next steps be, and what would they cost, if anything? Does insurance cover any part of it? How long might follow-up take? Every provider's answers differ, so ask the specific one you are meeting.
It is reasonable to take your time. You can ask for information in writing, request a second opinion, and decide not to proceed. A good provider will respect that, and will not pressure you to commit during the first visit.
The whole-person view
Body, mind, and stress affect each other. Pain, a lingering injury, or a health worry can raise stress, and stress can in turn change how the body feels and how well you sleep, move, and cope. Thinking about the whole person can help you describe your situation more completely to a clinician.
Some people explore body-based support such as Somatic Experiences alongside medical care, while others find talk therapy through Therapists.plus helpful for the worry and decision-making that can come with a health concern. These are options to consider, not requirements, and Providers.plus can help you find licensed providers.
Somatic Experiences: embodiment and movement →Therapists.plus: mind body connection →
Keep in mind
- Only a licensed clinician can decide what is appropriate for you after an evaluation; LiveCyte provides education, not medical advice.
- Most cellular and stem-cell-marketed products for joints, sports injuries, back pain, skin, or hair are not FDA-approved for those uses, so ask for the specific product and its FDA status before any treatment.
- Costs, insurance coverage, and recovery timelines vary, so ask the specific provider rather than relying on general claims, and be cautious of guarantees of cures or results.
- For serious conditions, licensed professionals should guide your care. For emergencies call 911; in a crisis call or text the 988 Lifeline.
Guides in this topic
Provider types
Frequently asked questions
What happens at a cellular therapy consultation?
A cellular therapy consultation is typically a conversation and evaluation with a licensed clinician. They usually review your health history, discuss your concerns, may perform an exam, and explain whether any options might be appropriate. Treatment is not usually assumed or guaranteed at this stage.
What is a cellular therapy candidacy evaluation?
A cellular therapy candidacy evaluation is the clinician's assessment of whether an option may be suitable for you. It generally considers your history, current health, and goals. The outcome may be that cellular therapy is not a good fit, and that is a valid result.
What should I bring to a first visit at a regenerative medicine clinic?
Bring a list of medications and supplements, prior medical records, and any imaging reports you have. A written list of your questions and symptoms also helps. Ask the clinic ahead of time if they want anything specific.
What is the cellular therapy intake process like?
The intake process usually starts with forms about your health history, medications, and concerns, sometimes completed before the visit. Staff may also gather records and explain what to expect. Details vary by clinic, so ask yours how it works.
Is cellular therapy FDA-approved?
Most cellular and stem-cell-marketed products used for joints, sports injuries, back pain, skin, or hair are not FDA-approved for those uses. Some specific cellular products are approved for particular medical conditions. Ask any provider to name the exact product and explain its FDA status.
How much does a cellular therapy consultation cost, and is it covered by insurance?
Costs and coverage differ from one provider to the next, so there is no universal answer. Ask the clinic about consultation fees, any testing charges, and whether insurance applies before you book. Request this information in writing if possible.
Educational resource. LiveCyte shares general information and connects people with independent providers. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health.