Bloomington clinic to offer new blood-based health assessment

Local life sciences company Predictive Physiology and Medicine Inc., announced last Monday local family practice and medical spa, Joie de Vivre, will now be offering a blood-based health assessment, called Viveda.

The assessment is a preventative measure that can detect future problems like diabetes, stroke and heart disease.

Joie de Vivre, Dr. Lisa Jerrells’ practice, opened last year. In addition to traditional medical services, the family practice offers a spa-like atmosphere where patients can purchase chemical peels, skin rejuvenation, botox and laser-hair removal.

“Because of my new practice, I am trying to incorporate new technology at Joie de Vivre,” Jerrells said. “I am offering preventative health care to my patients.”

Jerrells is the second to offer the assessment, which was just released three to five weeks ago. Predictive Physiology and Medicine developed Viveda over the course of two years.

“We have launched around two years of research and development into this product. So right now we are looking into expanding our products into the workplace as a health and wellness product,” Predictive Physiology and Medicine Chief Operating Officer Brian Kleber said.

“What they do is have scientists collect data from a large database at IU and run the blood using 100 different blood tests,” Jerrells said. “From the results, they can determine a patient’s risk for heart attack, stroke or diabetes.”

The results of the health assessment will give patients a bioprofile that can help them avoid possible future health risks. Viveda offers six individual assessment options, including cardio, cerebrovascular, metabolism, diabetes and stress.

The price of a single assessment is $599, although interested customers can have all six assessments performed for $1,699, said Predictive Physiology and Medicine spokeswoman Christa Curtis.

The assessments are not currently covered by insurance, but Jerrells said she believes that one day they will be covered.

“Maybe five years from now when insurance companies realize that they can offer their employees this treatment and keep them in good health,” they will be covered, she said.

Curtis said the assessment is offered mostly in the Midwest right now, but there is one doctor in Florida also offering it. The company hopes to expand their health assessment across the country.