How Care Works at SustainMD
SustainMD provides dedicated care for your weight and metabolic health. I assess the medical and personal factors affecting your health, develop recommendations with you and offer ongoing follow-up through optional membership.
My role is to give the metabolic part of your health the attention it deserves while working alongside the care you receive from other clinicians.
How your care begins
The initial consultation consists of two extended physician visits. At the first, I review your medical history, previous treatment, current medications and existing lab results. We also discuss your priorities and the circumstances that affect your care.
If further testing is appropriate, I explain what I recommend and how it may inform treatment. Lab evaluation is personalized; additional tests are not automatically required for every patient.
How your treatment plan comes together
At the second visit, we review the findings and my clinical assessment. I explain your individualized written plan, including nutrition, physical activity and medication when appropriate.
We discuss the reasons for each recommendation and how it fits into your life. Your questions and preferences are part of that decision-making process.
What happens after the consultation
You can choose Signature Care Membership for ongoing care. It includes monthly physician visits, accountability check-ins and direct communication between appointments.
During follow-up, I review your response to treatment, address concerns and adjust the plan as needed. Membership is optional; the consultation does not obligate you to continue.
When a one-time visit may be an option
A standalone One-Time Visit is available without a prior initial consultation or membership. It is a single appointment, separate from the comprehensive two-visit consultation.
If you are unsure which appointment fits your needs, contact the practice before booking. The Pricing page explains the available options.
What dedicated metabolic care includes
I consider how your medical history, medications, hormonal concerns, sleep and emotional wellbeing relate to your weight and metabolic health. Treatment may include medication within my scope, with coordination when another clinician manages part of your care.
SustainMD does not replace your primary care clinician for unrelated or acute concerns, or your specialists for complex conditions. I work alongside those clinicians so metabolic care can receive focused attention without taking over every aspect of your medical treatment.
Where visits take place
Virtual care is available in North Carolina, California, Florida and Maine. Virtual appointments are available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; in-person appointments are available on Tuesdays from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.
See Where I Practice for appointment information. I provide your physician care directly in either format.
How payment supports your care
You pay SustainMD directly for physician services. Insurance may still be used where covered for laboratory testing and medications, and invoices may support requests for eligible out-of-network reimbursement.
The Pricing page explains fees, inclusions and payment arrangements in one place.
Physician collaboration
For Referring Healthcare Professionals
Your patient needs GLP-1 treatment. Your practice may not have the resources to manage it. I can help.
Are you a primary care physician or specialist with patients who could benefit from GLP-1 therapy for an FDA-approved indication, but lack the time or office resources to navigate prior authorizations, provide patient education, initiate treatment, and manage ongoing care?
At SustainMD, I can take on that responsibility, helping your patients access appropriate treatment while allowing you to focus on the care you provide best.
Your patients maintain their established relationship with you, and we can coordinate their care or transition GLP-1 management back to your practice when appropriate.
Reach out to explore how we can collaborate for your patients' benefit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there two consultation visits?
The first visit establishes your history and clinical concerns. The second allows us to review the findings and discuss an individualized plan after that assessment.
Will I work directly with Dr. Barbee?
Yes. I conduct your physician visits, review your results and handle clinical communication myself.
Do I need new lab tests before my first visit?
Not necessarily. I review existing results and decide whether further testing would be useful. Do not assume you need a new panel before we discuss your history.
Does this replace my primary care physician?
No. This practice focuses on Obesity Medicine and metabolic health. Keep your primary care clinician for general and acute care, and continue specialist care when needed.
Can you work with my existing specialists?
Yes. I take your current treatment into account and coordinate with your other clinicians where appropriate, without taking over the care they provide.
Can I book just one appointment?
A standalone One-Time Visit is available without the initial consultation or membership. Contact the practice if you need help choosing the appropriate appointment.
What happens after I submit a booking?
I will contact you with the next steps. You will receive information relevant to the appointment you have selected.
Can I use this service for an emergency?
No. SustainMD is not an emergency or acute-care service. Seek immediate emergency help when needed rather than waiting for an appointment or message response.
How to take the next step
Book an initial consultation or use the discovery-call option if you want to discuss the practice before choosing an appointment. After booking, I will contact you with the next steps.