Video Summary:
In this transcript from a video by Andy Gale of Gale & Vallance in Orange County, we follow the story of Dr. Valencia Ray, MD—a former ophthalmologist who successfully opened a functional medicine clinic in California. Her journey offers an inspiring and practical example of transitioning into functional medicine and launching her own clinic, covering everything from retraining and licensure to business setup and legal structure. This conversation highlights important keywords related to practice formation, professional transitions, and holistic healthcare delivery.
To learn more about how to open a functional medicine clinic and navigate legal and business setup requirements, check out our detailed article on launching a functional medicine practice in California.
Disclaimer: This transcript is provided for general information purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and we strongly recommend consulting a qualified attorney about your specific case.
What I Do as a Functional Medicine Physician
00:00:11.660 – 00:00:32.219
Essentially I’m a medical doctor, now a functional medicine physician, and I’m focusing on, you know, helping patients to lose weight easier and reversing chronic medical, hormonal, and stress-related conditions using holistic science-based approaches.
People have to have their own primary care doctor, and I act more as a consultant doctor.
My Career Transition from Ophthalmology
00:00:32.219 – 00:01:08.909
I’ve trained in functional medicine. I was an ophthalmologist, then I sold my practice.
And I sold it because it just kind of happened where I knew I wanted to do this more holistic mind and body and spirit.
The transition—I learned a lot of things in the process. I learned a lot of technology, education, etc., etc.
But I could not find for several years the body healing piece that I wanted. And then ultimately, I found functional medicine, which has really been around about thirty years, which I practice.
I retrained—it’s an AU year program—and I started a practice here six months ago.
Starting My Practice in California
00:01:20.360 – 00:01:40.259
[Music]
The city—Walnut Creek—wanted something. County wanted something. Fortunately, I, you know, I have great doctor records.
And so I had to just fill out the paperwork for California, and I got my license.
Business Setup Made Easier With Experience
00:01:40.259 – 00:01:58.950
And then by having run a business before, I was ahead of most factors in terms of knowing what to do.
It’s not complex. And it was—for ophthalmology, you know, ophthalmology is expensive to get started.
Yeah, so it was a lot different. And this time it was just easier to do.
Working with Legal Help to Get Set Up
00:01:58.950 – 00:02:12.540
So flash forward to that—well, he was organized. I mean, it was easy.
I just had to fill out whatever it was I had to fill out, and he answered my questions.
And it was pretty—it was straightforward and easy.
Closing
00:02:19.850
[Music]
Conclusion: How to Open a Functional Medicine Clinic
If you’re exploring how to open a functional medicine clinic, Dr. Ray’s story offers valuable lessons—especially for physicians transitioning from traditional specialties. From retraining to business licensing, her journey highlights the importance of both professional and legal guidance. For help setting up your practice in California, reach out to Gale & Vallance for expert support tailored to your needs.
