Earn a bachelor’s degree, preferably in a science-related field
Complete medical school and earn an MD or DO degree
Pass the required medical licensing exams
Complete residency training in a clinical specialty
Obtain board certification if desired or required
Gain experience treating patients in conventional medicine
Study functional medicine principles and protocols
Enroll in a functional medicine training program
Complete certification through a recognized functional medicine organization
Apply functional medicine approaches in clinical practice
Maintain state medical licensure and specialty credentials
Complete continuing medical education in functional medicine
Build a patient-centered practice focused on root-cause care