Erica Favela
Health Coach • San Francisco
About Erica
Erica Favela uses food and physical well being as the starting place for individuals to come into alignment with living the best version of themselves. Erica first discovered the benefits and limitless possibilities of plant-based foods while studying at Living Light International Culinary Institute. Her horizons about food and nutrition expanded while becoming a Certified Holistic Nutrition Consultant at Bauman College. She then immersed herself in clinical practice, working with top Functional Medicine doctors in the San Francisco Bay Area, which further refined her application of bio-individualized nutrition and lifestyle guidance. Erica also has extensive training in Functional Nutrition with the Functional Nutrition Alliance and, as a self-proclaimed forever-learner, continues to evolve in her no-one-size-fits-all approach to healing.
Passionate about women’s health, Erica co-founded Cherish.us where she shares her latest insights on nutrition and recipes for pregnancy and new mothers. As a former elementary school teacher herself, Erica also leads nutrition workshops for The Teaching Well, where she helps educators discover energy-giving foods. Erica is a soon to be published recipe writer (2019) and when she’s not in the kitchen, you can find her nature bathing, dancing to salsa and hip-hop, or connecting with loved ones over tea.
Frequently asked questions
Can Parsley Health be my primary care physician?
We are considered a primary care practice, so we treat all conditions that a primary care doctor would. We are not specialists. However, if you need to see an OBGYN, cardiologist, or surgeon, for example, you will be referred appropriately. The costs associated with the services provided by specialists or any other healthcare provider outside of Parsley Health are not covered by your Parsley Health membership. Beyond visits, the primary mode of communication with our care team is messaging. We answer quickly during the week (within 24 - 48 hours) and always have a doctor on call to address urgent issues on weekends and holidays. We are often able to take care of acute issues without the need for a visit. A few points to remember about your Parsley Health membership: 1. We do not take insurance. However, we can provide paperwork for you to submit for out-of-network reimbursement from your insurance. You can also pay for your membership using FSA/HSA dollars. 2. We are not available for same-day emergency appointments. 3. If you have a medical emergency, we recommend that you visit urgent care or an ER.
Is Parsley Health covered by insurance?
We do not accept any form of insurance. Parsley Health is classified as a primary care practice, but insurance companies don’t recognize our membership model. After each medical visit, a lab manager can provide a superbill that you can submit to insurance for out-of-network reimbursement. Many members choose to pay for their plans using FSA/HSA dollars.
What is included with my plan?
What’s Included: Doctor’s visit(s) Health coaching visit(s) Online billing and scheduling Unlimited messaging with your care team through an online patient portal (Parsley Membership only) Prescriptions for medications and supplements (Parsley Membership only) In addition to our services, you’ll have access to: Our online supplement store at a discounted price Members-only events Exclusive access to and deals from our wellness partners - our favorite places to sweat, stretch, zen, and shop!
Do I need health insurance if I have a Parsley Health membership?
A Parsley Health membership does not replace health insurance. We advise all members to maintain a separate health insurance plan of their choosing. For blood work, insurance frequently offers full coverage. Please also note that the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) includes a requirement that all U.S. citizens purchase health insurance. A Parsley Health membership does not meet this requirement.
Is testing included in my membership fee? What costs can I expect to see?
Your doctor will work with you to customize testing orders based on your health needs and personal preferences. Costs for blood work and specialty tests are not included in the membership price. Blood work is usually covered by insurance. Specialty tests range in cost from $100 - $350. These tests, however, are completely optional.
What types of diagnostic testing does Parsley Health perform?
We offer both standard blood work and in-depth specialty testing to help construct a comprehensive picture of your health and better inform treatment. A personalized testing plan will be recommended by your doctor. All tests, however, are optional. Some of our most frequently prescribed specialty tests assess allergies, cortisol, genetics, microbiome health, and toxic metal levels.