Get Started
Is the Membership paid monthly or annually?
Payment is collected in full at the time you sign up. Your SHIFT membership renews on an annual basis. Our Member Services team will reach out six weeks prior to your renewal date to confirm payment and renewal status.
Can I use my health insurance to pay for my membership?
SHIFT is a private, fee-based membership model – we do not work directly with insurance. However, if applicable, you may be able to apply HSA/FSA funds toward the Membership fee. Individuals may also request a superbill after the provision of services in order to submit a claim for reimbursement; however, SHIFT cannot guarantee that any fees paid are covered by applicable health insurance or other third-party payment plans.
Do I need to keep my insurance?
Yes. You will need health insurance to cover any supplemental lab analysis, pharmaceuticals, vaccinations, screenings, and diagnostic imaging performed by specialists and providers outside of SHIFT.
How do I become a Member?
Primary Care Membership
How is SHIFT different from other primary care medicine providers?
We go beyond a standard primary care experience by creating comprehensive lifestyle plans involving doctors, physical therapists, registered dietitians, and fitness experts. Not only do we take care of you when you are sick, but we work with you to optimize your health to overcome life’s challenges and increase your longevity and healthspan.
Does SHIFT have multiple facilities?
We currently have one facility located in downtown Chicago (River North). Our Primary Care Membership and other concierge services offer telehealth options for added convenience and accessibility to your physician and multidisciplinary team.
What is the nature of the relationship between Members and their SHIFT physician?
Members have 24/7 direct access to their SHIFT physician. Our board-certified internal and family medicine physicians take the time to foster a personalized relationship with Members and provide a supportive healthcare experience.
Do I have to go to SHIFT’s medical office if I am sick?
Primary Care Members may contact their physician and receive care via telehealth appointments. However, in some cases, your SHIFT physician may ask you to meet in person based on medical need.
Is SHIFT affiliated with any specific hospital or health system?
SHIFT is institution-agnostic, meaning we are not tied to or bound to any single health system or provider group. This allows us to coordinate the best-in-class specialty care for our Members. We have strong relationships with prominent Chicago-based health systems and work closely with others across the country.
Can SHIFT expedite my specialist appointments?
We work on your behalf to find the right specialist for your needs. We leverage our preferred networks across various specialties to expedite scheduling whenever possible.
What are my upgrade options?
SHIFT offers a suite of services provided by subject matter experts to our Members looking to supplement their care.
How do I request medical records?
Members may contact our Clinical Care Coordinators at
medical@shiftlife.com to request medical records. Other parties requesting on behalf of Members may fax requests to our medical team at (312) 277-5252 or call our medical office at
(312) 566-4210 .
Do you see children?
No. You must be over 18 years of age to be a SHIFT Member.
Executive Physical
What is an Executive Physical?
An executive physical is an in-depth health assessment that is traditionally provided to busy professionals and executives. Executive physicals typically evaluate overall health and include screenings for various health risks and conditions. These exams sometimes include consultations with specialists with a focus on medical recommendations to promote health and wellness.
Why should you have an Executive Physical at SHIFT?
SHIFT offers an elevated, forward-looking experience focused on delivering patient-centered, accessible, and innovative care. Your physicians discuss your specific health concerns and questions in depth. We believe that understanding the conditions of your life, your patterns of behavior, your values, and your aspirations is essential to providing the best care. We use a much broader range of diagnostic tests in combination with insights from one-on-one consultations to establish your true health baseline. Together, you and your doctor explore options as well as action steps to treat existing medical conditions, manage health risks, and build health for the future. This single-day health experience culminates with a discussion with your physician and a review of data, recommendations, and resources.
How easy is it to schedule my Executive Physical?
Scheduling your Executive Physical is seamless and convenient. You can schedule your appointment entirely online – we provide you with a link to schedule up to 90 days in advance.
What bloodwork is completed during the Executive Physical?
We conduct a comprehensive lab panel, including:
Lipid panel Complete blood count with differential and platelets Complete metabolic panel Urinalysis Hemoglobin A1c Vitamin D labs Thyroid-stimulating hormone Ferritin
Our physicians may add specific tests based on age, gender, and clinical indication. Certain labs may be billed directly to insurance.
What should I expect on the day of my Executive Physical?
On the day of your Executive Physical, our concierge care team will guide you through each element of your day efficiently. You begin with diagnostic testing, enjoy a nutritious breakfast, receive an in-depth physical, discuss your health with your physician, and consult with nutrition, fitness, and recovery experts. You finish the day with a final conversation with your physician to address outstanding questions, summarize recommendations, and solidify your action plan.
How should I prepare for my Executive Physical? What do I need to bring and wear?
Dress comfortably – we recommend wearing workout gear, athletic shoes, and clothes with minimal metal/zippers. Feel free to store any belongings or a change of clothing in a personal locker in our spacious locker rooms. Do not consume food or beverages (besides water) at least four hours before your visit, and do not drink any caffeinated beverages after midnight before your visit. Take all current medications as prescribed, and do not exercise in the morning, as this may skew certain diagnostic results.
What options do I have for travel and parking on the day of my Executive Physical?
SHIFT is located at the northeast corner of LaSalle Drive. Metered street parking and nearby parking lots are available within walking distance. We recommend reserving a parking spot 3-5 days before your Executive Physical using the provided link in your onboarding materials. SHIFT is a
5-minute walk (three blocks) from the
CTA Brown Line Merchandise Mart stop. SHIFT is also a
15-minute walk from
Southwater Metra Station and a
20-minute walk from
Ogilvie Train Station .
What is your rescheduling and cancellation policy?
Executive Physical appointments canceled or rescheduled less than five (5) business days prior to the scheduled date will be subject to a $250 cancellation fee. Please call SHIFT at
(312) 566-4210 for all cancellation and rescheduling needs.
Executive Health Programs
How does billing work for corporate programs?
SHIFT can customize a company’s billing arrangements based on how the company intends to offer the program. We can bill the company directly via monthly invoicing for individuals seen or collect payment upfront from individuals and provide a receipt for company reimbursement.
Are corporate discounts available?
Discounts are available for groups based on size or for those that choose to prepay for services.
How far in advance do I need to schedule an appointment?
Our schedules open for booking up to three months in advance. Generally, individuals can book an Executive Physical appointment within two to four weeks.
How long is the Executive Physical?
The initial Executive Physical is five to six hours in length, with breakfast and lunch provided.
Do you include spouses in your Corporate programs?
Yes. Each company determines eligibility for Corporate programs, which frequently involve including spouses/partners.
Can my group be scheduled all on the same day?
Yes. SHIFT may make accommodations for teams to come on the same day or consecutive days based on the size of the group.
Will my health insurance cover any part of my Executive Health Membership?
SHIFT is a private fee-based membership model – we do not work directly with insurance. If self-pay, individuals may request a superbill after the provision of services in order to submit a claim for reimbursement; however, SHIFT cannot guarantee that any fees paid are covered by applicable health insurance or other third-party payment plans.
Can an individual’s medical information be shared with their employer?
Employees’ medical information is strictly confidential and will never be shared with their employers. A notice of privacy practices will be provided directly to the individual once an Executive Physical is scheduled.
Are there additional locations? Can the Executive Physical be done remotely?
SHIFT offers Executive Physicals at the Chicago location in River North. Because of the diagnostics performed, the physical cannot be done remotely, but telehealth services are available for those in Corporate Care Plus.
Advanced PT & Recovery
Do I need to have an injury to receive physical therapy?
No. Physical therapy is not used only for recovering from injuries, it’s also beneficial for maintaining and improving overall physical health. Physical therapists are experts in the body’s bones, muscles, tendons, and joints, and they excel at identifying movement dysfunctions and imbalances that cause injury or may lead to future injury. Our experts use a combination of hands-on treatment with exercises to correct faults, prevent future injuries, manage pain, improve functionality, and optimize performance.
Do I need to see my physician for a prescription for physical therapy?
No. Illinois is a direct access state, so you can see a physical therapist without a doctor's referral. If the evaluation reveals a more complex medical need, your physical therapist will require that you see a physician first. Regardless, to maintain adequate care coordination, your physical therapist will send notice to your primary care provider that you have begun physical therapy.
What is performance physical therapy?
Performance physical therapy focuses on diagnosing, managing, and treating musculoskeletal disorders and injuries, including post-surgical rehab, sports injuries, arthritis, chronic pain syndromes, and tendinopathies. It aims to go beyond reactive care, helping individuals improve their overall health and longevity by restoring and enhancing their physical performance, educating them on injury prevention, and elevating their baseline beyond pre-injury levels.
Do you accept insurance?
We do not work directly with insurance. If self-pay, individuals may request a superbill after the provision of services in order to submit a claim for reimbursement; however, SHIFT cannot guarantee that any fees paid are covered by applicable health insurance or other third-party payment plans. Unlike most PT clinics that schedule you to see the physical therapist three times a week, often alongside other patients, SHIFT instead prioritizes one-on-one sessions to fully address your needs and concerns. By focusing on personalized care, we aim to reduce the total number of visits you require, typically resulting in treatment once or twice a week. In the long run, this may result in lower overall costs compared to traditional PT practices, especially when considering factors like deductibles, co-pays, and additional visits.
Customized Fitness Programming
Do I need to be a SHIFT Member to sign up for Customized Fitness Programming?
No. SHIFT offers customized fitness programming to non-Members as well as to Members, making personalized fitness accessible even to those who aren't ready for a full membership.
Will nutrition and recovery elements be incorporated into my fitness program?
Your fitness program will include warm-up and cool-down elements as well as mobility exercises, if applicable. However, if you need a formal physical therapy and recovery program, consider our Advanced PT & Recovery sessions. Nutrition recommendations will not be included in your fitness program, but you can opt to pair your 12-week fitness plan with our 12-week nutrition coaching program, Fuel U, for optimal results.
What is the turnaround time for my fitness program?
After your initiation consultation, your fitness program will be delivered via the Trainerize® app within five business days.
Golf TPI Program
What is TPI Golf?
The Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) is a program that trains golf professionals, personal trainers, physical therapists, chiropractors, and medical practitioners to understand the correlation between a golfer's physical limitations and swing flaws.
How long does it take to see results from the TPI Program?
Results can vary depending on individual goals, commitment to the program, and current physical condition. Typically, strength, flexibility, and golf performance improvements can be seen within a few weeks to a few months of consistent training.
Can the TPI program help with golf-related injuries?
Yes, the TPI program includes assessments and exercises designed to help prevent and rehabilitate golf-related injuries. The program aims to improve overall body function and reduce the risk of injury by addressing physical limitations and imbalances.
Is there anything I need to bring on the day of my Assessment?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for movement and exercise.
Will nutrition and lifestyle be considered during my Assessment?
TPI assessments primarily focus on physical factors related to golf performance and injury prevention, such as flexibility, strength, and mobility. However, if you are interested in getting nutrition support to help complement your golf-related training, consider our nutrition offering,
Fuel U .
Fuel U Nutrition Coaching
Do I need to be a SHIFT Member to receive an Individual Nutrition Consultation?
No. Anyone interested in taking the next step in their nutrition journey is invited to sign up for an individual nutrition consultation. SHIFT Members who wish to supplement their care with added nutrition support are invited to upgrade their membership with our nutrition coaching program,
Fuel U , or may sign up for an Individual Nutrition Consultation.
Can I sign up for Fuel U nutrition coaching after I’ve completed an Individual Nutrition Consultation?
Yes. Many of our clients choose to continue their nutrition journey by signing up for our 12-week nutrition coaching program for ongoing accountability and more in-depth fuel planning. Should you choose to sign up for Fuel U after your Individual Nutrition Consultation, the cost of your single session is credited against the total Fuel U program charge.
How do I sign up and how quickly can I schedule my Individual Nutrition Consultation?
Fill out our
INC Services Agreement in less than five minutes. After your submission, our nutrition team will reach out to schedule your consultation, typically within one week for an in-person or virtual meeting.
Are nutrition coaching services covered by insurance or HSA/FSA?
All SHIFT services follow the private, fee-based model – we do not work directly with insurance companies. However, if applicable, you may be able to apply HSA/FSA funds toward the Fuel U program fee. Individuals may also request a superbill after the provision of services to submit a claim for reimbursement; however, SHIFT/Fuel U cannot guarantee that any fees paid are covered by applicable health insurance or third-party payment plans.
Are nutrition coaching sessions offered in person, online, or hybrid?
Fuel U offers flexible formats for personalized nutrition coaching. While we typically structure the Fuel U program as a hybrid model – in-person for initial and monthly sessions paired with virtual weekly coaching – we can accommodate all in-person or all online/virtual models as well to meet the needs of diverse lifestyles, whether clients prefer face-to-face interaction, virtual convenience, or a mix of both.
Are one-hour nutrition consultations available in person or online?
One-hour nutrition consultations, or ‘Introductory Nutrition Consultations’, can be conducted in person or online. We offer our clients the opportunity for a comprehensive discussion and personalized assessment in their preferred format.
Can a DEXA scan identify health-risk factors that a dietitian can address?
Absolutely. A dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan is the gold-standard diagnostic tool used to measure body composition. A DEXA scan provides detailed insights into body composition, such as lean mass, body fat percentage, and body fat distribution (including visceral fat). The detailed data is a more accurate indicator of health compared to weight or BMI alone. Fuel U dietitians use pre- and post-DEXA scans to track key metrics, such as Total Body Fat Percentage, Visceral Adipose Tissue (VAT), and Appendicular Lean Mass Index (ALMI). These results allow the registered dietitian to create more personalized nutrition coaching to support your goals, whether they are supporting bone health, improving metabolic function, or optimizing sports performance.
Can a registered dietitian help with weight loss and sports performance?
Yes. SHIFT registered dietitians deliver evidence-based guidance for both weight loss and sports nutrition for optimal performance. Dietitians use DEXA data combined with proven strategies to help clients achieve sustainable weight loss. Macro coaching, nutrient timing, and strategic fueling are a few tools used to support sports performance and athletic goals.
Can nutrition coaching work for frequent travelers or busy professionals?
Of course! SHIFT’s nutrition coaching is designed for busy lifestyles. Our customized nutrition plans consider timing limitations, convenience, and travel challenges that cater to busy professionals. Our dietitians are familiar with the nutritional challenges executives face and ensure they are staying well-fueled and energized, even on the go.
Do you need a membership to work with a nutrition coach?
No, a SHIFT membership is not necessary to sign up for a Fuel U program. Fuel U clients can access single sessions (Introductory Nutrition Consultations) or our 12-week program independent from our concierge primary care membership. Fuel U is perfect for corporate leaders or high performers seeking targeted, personalized nutrition coaching within a flexible framework.
Do you receive a personalized meal plan after a nutrition consultation?
Yes. At the beginning of your 12-week nutrition coaching program your dietitian will create a customized nutrition plan tailored to your lifestyle, preferences, and health goals. Your comprehensive plan may include macronutrient guidance, sample meals, tips for busy schedules, brand recommendations, and suggested recipes.
How can improved nutrition boost energy and productivity at work?
Strategic nutrition stabilizes blood sugar, supports focus, and sustains energy – all key for peak performance. Fuel U clients often report sharper mental acuity, improved stress resilience, and elevated productivity when fueling in a balanced and consistent way. Our nutrition programs are ideal for leaders leveraging tailored healthcare to match their unique demands.
How is a 12-week nutrition-coaching program typically structured?
Our 12-week nutrition coaching program is structured as follows:
What results can you expect from nutrition-coaching programs?
Our nutrition programs are highly individualized, so outcomes vary significantly and are based on a client’s goals. However, common outcomes we observe include:
What’s the difference between a nutritionist and a registered dietitian?
Registered dietitians (RDs or RDNs) are board-certified healthcare professionals who must meet rigorous standards to obtain and maintain their credential. Registered dietitians undergo advanced training, including completing over 1,000 hours of supervised practice and earning a master’s degree. They are the only healthcare professionals that are legally able to provide medical nutrition therapy (MNT) and nutrition counseling. In contrast, nutritionist is not a regulated term in many states – anyone may use it, regardless of training. Some credible certifications, like Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) exist, but overall the title is much less standardized.
When should I see a dietitian?
Seek out a dietitian if you:
Will a nutrition consultation include brand or recipe suggestions and sports-fueling advice?
Yes. Nutrition consultations may include tailored recipe suggestions, food brand recommendations, and fueling advice for sports and athletic performance. Fuel U dietitians take the time to understand your goals, lifestyle, and preferences before providing you with approachable strategies to help you achieve the results you desire.
Will a dietitian recommend supplements during a consultation?
If appropriate and indicated, a registered dietitian may recommend supplements to address confirmed deficiencies or to support performance. Fuel U takes a food-first approach, but your dietitian will work with you to provide supplement recommendations based on evidence.
How do I get started with nutrition coaching?
Email us at
nutrition@shiftlife.com to connect with one of our registered dietitians. You can also schedule a free 15-minute discovery call to have your questions answered and to learn more about our services!
Specialized Diagnostics & Screening
How often should I get diagnostic tests done?
Routine diagnostic testing, like bloodwork, is recommended annually. However, more frequent monitoring for out-of-range levels may be advised for certain individuals. More advanced health screenings, including advanced cardiovascular testing or metabolic testing, should be repeated based on personal risk factors.
Do I need a doctor’s referral for diagnostic screenings?
At SHIFT, we provide preventive health tests and advanced diagnostic screenings in-house, without the need for a referral. This makes it easier for our members to access proactive, personalized care.
What are the benefits of early diagnostic screenings?
Early detection through health screenings identifies risks for diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, or cancer early, ultimately leading to better outcomes. Preventive health screenings are essential for long-term health and longevity.
Which diagnostic screenings are most important for women?
For women, key testing includes mammogram screening, Pap smears with HPV testing, body composition scans, metabolic testing, and cardiovascular assessments. More advanced female health diagnostics may also include genetic testing for women to evaluate breast and ovarian cancer risk.
Do women need specialized cancer screenings?
Yes! Women should get female cancer risk screening, like Pap smears and ovarian cancer screenings. Additional options, like women’s diagnostic blood tests and early detection breast cancer tests, also offer valuable insights.
Can I request a female technician or doctor for my screenings?
Whenever possible, we'll accommodate requests for a female provider to ensure a comfortable and supportive experience.
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