Innovator: Rebecca Boyd, Founder of Forward Health Solutions
Rebecca Boyd, a Natural Hormone Replacement Therapist (NHRT), is the recipient of the first Pine Belt Innovator AirTime Award. Boyd is a Southern Miss alum with a business model of improving her clients' health by prescribing NHRT when their hormones are out of balance.
Natural hormones are replaced when there are deficiencies and excesses, and can help patients to feel better. While conducting research during residency, Boyd came to understand how NHRT could drastically improve overall health. Intrigued by her findings, she decided to pursue the practice with a passion. "I understood how NHRT, with the patient's help, could transform the lives of people suffering with hormonal imbalances," she said.
With her expertise, Boyd provides the Hattiesburg region a natural option to improve their health through NHRT. "For some time now, we have been overwhelmed by hormones (primarily estrogenic) in both our foods, environment, and at times medications, which have contributed to hormonal imbalances in women and men," Boyd said.
With her passion for natural healing and entrepreneurial spirit, Boyd recently opened her own clinic. Forward Health Solutions officially opened October 22, 2007. The office is located at 6242 Highway 98 West, Hattiesburg (in front of Petro Automotive). Call 601-450-2077 to schedule an appointment.
Interview with Rebecca:
Where did you grow up?
Becker, Minnesota (about an hour north of Minneapolis)
Where did you go to school, and what did you study?
I attended Boston University for their pre-med program. At the University of Southern Mississippi I received a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Masters of Science in Public Health, with an emphasis in nutrition. At Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences I received a Doctor of Osteopathy. I did my medical school residency at the Medical College of Georgia.
What do you do that is innovative?
With the goal of helping people improve how they feel, I assess patient’s needs and prescribe Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy (NHRT) when their hormones are out of balance. My initial hour-long consultation consists of learning about their medical history, symptoms, diet, and other possible factors contributing to their hormone imbalance. Additionally, a saliva test is given to each patient to submit for analysis. Once the analysis is completed, a second consultation takes place with the patient. The findings are discussed, and treatment options are presented to them.
What is a “natural hormone”?
A natural hormone has the exact chemical structure of the hormone that it is intended to replace. When you replace deficiencies, or remove excesses, patients can feel better. Premarin and Prempro for example, are synthetic hormones, and while some parts of the structure may look similar, it is definitely not the same.
How did you get involved in doing what you’re doing now?
While in residency, I heard about and became interested in natural hormone replacement therapy (NHRT) at a lecture given by a pharmacist. I was surprised I hadn’t previously learned about NHRT during medical school and residency. I questioned the validity of what he said, so I started to the process of researching the topic. I first remember reading, “What your doctor may not tell you about menopause” by John Lee, M.D., and I wanted to know more. I reviewed my physiology books, read as many research articles and books as I could find on the topic, and eventually attended a seminar which verified what I had come to understand. I remember listening to Dr. Eldred Taylor, an OB/GYN and author of the book “Are Your Hormones Making You Sick”, who supported the use of NHRT citing research, studies and explaining further how a hormonal imbalance affects the body physiologically. By this point, I knew NHRT was a practice that I was interested in pursuing. I understood how NHRT could transform the lives of people suffering with hormonal imbalances. While at Lake Serene Clinic, I started treating patients with NHRT and was able to see significant results. Through continued reading, research and webinars presented by Dr. Taylor and colleagues, I make the decision to open my own clinic to treat patients with hormonal imbalances and to consult with them toward achieving personal health. While leaving Lake Serene was one of the toughest decisions I have ever made, it was easier because my family and friends were there encouraging me every step of the way.
Do you/your org have any news you’d like us to highlight?
Forward Health Solutions, my new clinic, officially opened on October 22nd, 2007. It is located at 6242 Highway 98 West, Hattiesburg (in front of Petro Automotive). Patients can call 601-450-2077 to schedule an appointment.
While many people believe that NHRT is only for women going through menopause, it is also beneficial for other people as well. For example, I have had success treating young women who suffer from PMS and other menstrual problems, as well as men with hormonal imbalances.
What sets you apart from your competition?
I address cortisol (stress hormone) and thyroid hormone levels, in addition to treating a patient’s estrogen, progesterone and testosterone imbalances.
So you grew up in MN, how did you make it to MS?
While at Boston University, I decided I really didn’t like cold weather any more. A friend had suggested that I visit the University of Southern Mississippi. So, during one summer break I came to Hattiesburg. When I visited, I thought Southern Miss would be a great school to attend and the people I met were friendly and welcoming. So, I packed up, transferred schools and moved south. Since I’ve been here I’ve made many friends and married my wonderful husband (a Picayune native).
How does working in the Pine Belt region help you or your business?
Many people of the Pine Belt are seeking natural ways to improve their health and/or continue wellness, and I hope to be able to help some of them achieve that balance. In addition, entrepreneurs have great opportunities for education and networking through the Pine Belt Innovators and Area Development Partnership.
What advice would you give to a young innovator?
Never stop learning and thinking. It’s easy to do what you have always done without looking at other possibilities. Don’t be afraid to take risks. Instead, consider new ideas and try new things. And, then, allow what you learn to transform you.
What is the benefit for a patient to use natural hormone therapy opposed to traditional hormone replacement medicine?
For some time now, we have been overwhelmed by hormones (primarily estrogenic) in both our foods and our environment which have contributed to hormonal imbalances in women and men. Some of my patients have experienced symptoms such as terrible mood swings, forgetfulness, and feeling agitated or sad for no apparent reason. Hormonal imbalances can cause these symptoms, which many people have suffered through much of their lives. By properly accessing and treating a hormonal imbalance with hormones that are natural (instead of synthetic), patients are experiencing significant improvements in their overall well being. They are more relaxed and happier people as the result of the therapy and affirms my belief in its effectiveness.