The Upstream Functional Medicine Team

Julia Buchkina, MD, MPH, IFMCP completed medical school in 2008 and residency in Family Medicine in 2012, both at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. She received her certification in Functional Medicine through the Institute for Functional Medicine in 2014. She is also a Bredesen Protocol Certified Practitioner and a Wahls Protocol Certified Practitioner. She is board certified in Family Medicine by the American Board of Family Medicine, and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Integrative Holistic Medicine. She uses a comprehensive, patient-centered, and evidence-based approach to identify and address the root causes of chronic disease. She strongly believes in Food as Medicine as the foundation of her practice – this is a key part of each and every functional medicine prescription she provides to her patients. She also believes in the smart use of prescription medications when appropriate, as well as supplemental vitamins, herbs, and other nutriceuticals as deemed appropriate on an individual basis.

Tammy Rich, BSN, RN, FMCHC is a registered nurse and certified functional medicine health coach. She completed her coaching certification in 2019 through the Functional Medicine Coaching Academy (FMCA). This is the only program that works in collaboration with the Institute for Functional Medicine to certify health coaches. Tammy integrates the best of both traditional medicine and functional medicine in her work as a health coach. Formerly a minister, she is skilled in nurturing the whole person and brings her passion for healthy living to her practice. Her professional toolkit includes a wealth of techniques for implementing lifestyle change, pushing past limiting beliefs, and breaking through long-standing barriers, all with an emphasis on the implementation of specialized healing diets and mindfulness practices. Her expertise will help you level up to be your best self.