Seaworthy Functional Medicine

Seaworthy Functional Medicine, a department of South Peninsula Hospital, combines the best of family medicine with cutting-edge functional medicine, advanced diagnostic testing, and a compassionate, experienced team dedicated to helping patients achieve optimal wellness.

Founded by Dr. Rob Downey, a family practice MD and Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM) Certified Practitioner, Seaworthy offers a science-based, patient-centered approach to uncovering and treating the root causes of illness. Dr. Downey and his team are passionate about helping individuals rediscover their vitality and live healthy, balanced lives.

At Seaworthy, we take a comprehensive look at your health story to identify underlying causes of disease and opportunities for improved vitality. While Seaworthy does not serve as your primary care provider, we partner closely with your existing physician to support your overall health goals.

Serving patients across Homer, Alaska, and beyond, the Seaworthy team is known for its thoughtful attention to detail, prompt communication, and genuine commitment to supporting each patient’s unique health journey.

Services

Functional Medicine

Our functional medicine approach expands beyond conventional tools, integrating:

Evidence-based nutrition and targeted supplementation
Advanced laboratory testing
Medications when appropriate — conventional treatments still have an important role and are thoughtfully incorporated when helpful
Stress-management and restorative practices (yoga, meditation, biofeedback)
Sleep optimization, movement, and lifestyle coaching
Support for adequate social and community resources — recognizing the important role connection and support systems play in healing

Nutrition

Nutrition is foundational to healing. We use comprehensive digestive and nutritional assessments to understand how your body processes food, absorbs nutrients, and responds to specific foods. This allows us to design personalized nutrition strategies and supplementation plans that support long-term vitality.

Gut Health Testing. Through GI Effects® Comprehensive Stool Profile, we assess digestion, inflammation, and the microbiome to identify gut-related issues affecting whole-body health.
Nutritional Deficiency Testing. We utilize NutrEval®, a comprehensive panel that identifies nutritional deficiencies and guides personalized supplementation.
Food Intolerance Testing. Our IgG Food Antibody Assessment measures reactions to 87 common foods to identify potential triggers for inflammation or digestive symptoms.
SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) Testing. Using Genova’s SIBO Breath Test, we detect bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine by analyzing exhaled gases after a simple lactulose solution.
Professional-Grade supplements. Patients receive access to high-quality, physician-recommended supplements through our Fullscript dispensary at discounted rates.

Diagnostic Testing

To understand the root causes of symptoms, we use advanced, precise laboratory testing that looks deeper than routine bloodwork. These tests help identify hormonal, metabolic, thyroid, and cardiovascular imbalances so your treatment plan is tailored to your unique biology.

Hormone Testing & Optimization. We use DUTCH PLUS® testing to evaluate adrenal and sex hormones (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and DHEA). Imbalances can contribute to fatigue, mood changes, and other symptoms. This test is particularly valuable for assessing peri-menopause, menopause, and andropause, allowing Dr. Downey to create customized treatment strategies.
Comprehensive Thyroid Lab Testing. Our six-part thyroid panel includes TSH, Free T4, Free T3, Reverse T3, Thyroglobulin Antibody, and Thyroperoxidase Antibody for precise diagnosis and management.
Cardiovascular Risk Assessment. Using CardioCheck technology, we provide rapid, lab-quality testing for cholesterol, triglycerides, and glucose to help evaluate cardiovascular risk factors.

Certified Health Coaching

We incorporate Functional Medicine Certified Health Coaches—available locally in Homer and via virtual visits—to help patients implement and sustain lifestyle changes.

What to Expect as a Patient

Your experience at Seaworthy Functional Medicine begins with curiosity, collaboration, and care.

Initial Consultation

Your first appointment includes an in-depth discussion of your medical history, symptoms, and goals. You’ll receive guidance on any immediate testing that may help uncover the root cause of your concerns.

Testing & Evaluation

Functional medicine testing is highly individualized. You may complete blood, stool, saliva, or breath tests depending on your health profile.

Personalized Treatment Plan

Once your results are in, Dr. Downey and the Seaworthy team will design a plan tailored to your unique biology and lifestyle.

Follow-Up & Support

You’ll have ongoing support through follow-up appointments, coaching, and adjustments to ensure lasting progress.

Please note that Seaworthy Functional Medicine is not a primary care practice. Patients must maintain a relationship with their primary care provider.

FAQ

What is functional medicine?

Functional medicine is a personalized, systems-based approach that looks for the why behind illness. Instead of treating symptoms alone, we identify and address underlying causes using nutrition, movement, sleep, stress management, and other tools to restore balance and function.

How is functional medicine different from conventional medicine?

While conventional medicine focuses on diagnosing and managing disease, functional medicine seeks to understand the root causes of illness. We use a broader toolbox, combining traditional medical treatments with advanced testing, nutrition, and lifestyle medicine. Each patient’s treatment plan is unique, but it often includes evidence-based food plans, vitamins, minerals, and functional medicine laboratory testing; professional-grade supplements; and support for healthy sleep, exercise, social resources, and restorative practices such as yoga, meditation, or biofeedback. When appropriate, medications remain an important part of the plan, used alongside these integrative tools to achieve the best possible outcomes.

What conditions can functional medicine help with?

Functional medicine can support a wide range of chronic issues, including fatigue, hormonal imbalances, gut health concerns, autoimmune conditions, inflammation, stress, and mood disorders.

How do I see my provider?

We offer appointments both in person at our welcoming clinic in Homer, Alaska, and virtually through secure telemedicine visits using the MyCarePlan app by Qure4U. Whether you prefer to visit our brick-and-mortar location or connect from the comfort of home, our goal is to make functional medicine care accessible wherever you are.

Do you accept patients outside Homer or Alaska?

We offer telemedicine appointments for patients located across the state of Alaska.

Patients who live outside of Homer can establish care either in person and continue with telemedicine follow-ups, or choose to establish care entirely via telemedicine. Patients establishing care via telemedicine are asked to complete a physical exam and obtain clearance from their primary care provider every two years, using a form provided by the Seaworthy team. This helps ensure that your overall care remains connected and comprehensive.

The Seaworthy providers are not able to provide telemedicine services for patients outside of Alaska.

Can Seaworthy be my primary care provider?

Seaworthy Functional Medicine is designed to complement, not replace, your primary care. We partner with you and your primary care provider to help you reach your health goals through a functional medicine lens. Your primary care provider remains the home base for general medical needs, preventive exams, and urgent concerns, while our team focuses on uncovering root causes and creating a personalized plan for long-term wellness. Having both in place ensures you receive the most complete, coordinated care possible.

How do I become a patient at Seaworthy?

New patients can establish care with Seaworthy Functional Medicine by scheduling an appointment either in person at our clinic in Homer, Alaska, or through a virtual telemedicine visit.

How long will I continue to see the Seaworthy team?

Length of care depends on your individual needs and progress. Many patients begin with three to six months of active care, then transition to periodic check-ins for long-term wellness support.

Will insurance cover my care?

We accept all major insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, VA, Tri-Care, BCBS, Moda, and Aetna. Coverage varies by plan, so we encourage you to contact your insurance provider to confirm your benefits. Our team is also happy to help you understand what may be covered and what to expect before you begin care.