Did you know... In this episode of All One Nurse, Dr. Phylicia Harris discusses her journey as a family nurse practitioner specializing in functional medicine, particularly focusing on autoimmune conditions affecting Black women. She emphasizes the importance of patient-centered care, the role of lifestyle factors in health, and the significance of gut health. Dr. Harris shares her insights on the challenges faced by nursing students, the need for advocacy in healthcare, and the mission of her practice, Functionally Balanced Health, which aims to empower women to reclaim their health by addressing the root causes of their conditions. Key Takeaways Patient education is a key component of her care philosophy. Functional medicine focuses on the root causes of health issues. Autoimmune diseases disproportionately affect women of color. Self-advocacy is crucial in navigating healthcare systems. Patients should not hesitate to seek alternative care options. Gut health plays a vital role in overall immune function. Preventative care can significantly improve health outcomes. The importance of understanding one's own body. Don't give up when someone doesn't believe you. Keep the conversation going with healthcare providers. Lifestyle factors play a significant role in managing autoimmune conditions. Listening to patients is crucial for effective care. Genetics can influence health, but lifestyle choices matter more. Collaboration among healthcare providers enhances patient care and outcomes. Mentioned in this episode:  Connect with Dr. Phylicia Harris and explore her work through the following platforms: Website: Visit https://functionallybalancedhealth.com/ to learn more about her services. Instagram: @functionallybalancedhealth  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/functionallybalancedhealth LinkedIn: Dr. Phylicia Harris, DNP, APRN, FNP-C | LinkedIn  https://www.linkedin.com/in/phylicia-harris-fnp-c/  Did you know statement source: https://swhr.org/elevating-the-impacts-of-autoimmune-disease-and-black-womens-health/ Let’s CONNECT! Stay connected with Shenell Thompkins, your host of All One Nurse! Instagram: @allonenurse_shenell Facebook: All One Nurse TikTok: @all_one_nurse LinkedIn: Shenell Thompkins YouTube: All One Nurse