Our Expert Medical Team

Meet the medical experts who are here to guide you on your path to optimal health.

Robert Howard, MD

Physician

As a Vanderbilt graduate, Dr. Howard studied at Harvard and conducted research at Massachusetts General Hospital. Upon earning his degree from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine, he completed his residency and fellowship training at UK and Vanderbilt.

Dr. Howard is interested in the mental health benefits of hormone optimization. With a background in psychiatry and addiction medicine, he provides a unique perspective on hormone optimization, which he sees as a necessary foundation for one’s health and vitality. Dr. Howard’s journey with hormone optimization has been nothing short of transformative. He is enthusiastic to share his knowledge and experience with his patients, helping them to look and feel their best.

Dr. Howard is licensed to practice medicine in Kentucky, Tennessee, and Ohio. He provides aesthetic services such as Botox in addition to hormone optimization.

Stacey Willging, NP

Practitioner

For as long as I can remember, I have had an interest in health and wellness. I originally started my nursing career in 2011 and have experience in emergency, cardiology, hospice and long-term care. While working as a hospice nurse, I became interested in preventative medicine and attended Southwest Institute of Healing Arts and Cornell University. Over the years I have received certifications in wellness coaching, holistic nutrition, mindfulness and stress management techniques. My advanced practice nursing degree was obtained from the University of Cincinnati, with a Master of Science in Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner and my undergraduate was from Ohio University. I hold an advanced BHRT Certification through WorldLink Medical with Dr. Neil Rouzier, where I’ve gained knowledge in the latest medical treatments for chronic disease prevention, grounded in hormone therapy.

I am passionate about focusing on wellness that is centered around helping patients restore their vitality and energy through hormone optimization, weight loss peptides, sexual wellness and performance recovery modalities. I feel grateful to be part of Optimize U and to now be on the side of “well care” vs “sick care”. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my husband and three grown children. I love anything outdoors, staying active and spending time with friends. I also am a proud Veteran of the U.S. Navy.

Our Expert Medical Team

Meet the medical experts who are here to guide you on your path to optimal health.

Robert Howard, MD

Physician

As a Vanderbilt graduate, Dr. Howard studied at Harvard and conducted research at Massachusetts General Hospital. Upon earning his degree from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine, he completed his residency and fellowship training at UK and Vanderbilt.

Dr. Howard is interested in the mental health benefits of hormone optimization. With a background in psychiatry and addiction medicine, he provides a unique perspective on hormone optimization, which he sees as a necessary foundation for one’s health and vitality. Dr. Howard’s journey with hormone optimization has been nothing short of transformative. He is enthusiastic to share his knowledge and experience with his patients, helping them to look and feel their best.

Dr. Howard is licensed to practice medicine in Kentucky, Tennessee, and Ohio. He provides aesthetic services such as Botox in addition to hormone optimization.

Stacey Willging, NP

Practitioner

For as long as I can remember, I have had an interest in health and wellness. I originally started my nursing career in 2011 and have experience in emergency, cardiology, hospice and long-term care. While working as a hospice nurse, I became interested in preventative medicine and attended Southwest Institute of Healing Arts and Cornell University. Over the years I have received certifications in wellness coaching, holistic nutrition, mindfulness and stress management techniques. My advanced practice nursing degree was obtained from the University of Cincinnati, with a Master of Science in Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner and my undergraduate was from Ohio University. I hold an advanced BHRT Certification through WorldLink Medical with Dr. Neil Rouzier, where I’ve gained knowledge in the latest medical treatments for chronic disease prevention, grounded in hormone therapy.

I am passionate about focusing on wellness that is centered around helping patients restore their vitality and energy through hormone optimization, weight loss peptides, sexual wellness and performance recovery modalities. I feel grateful to be part of Optimize U and to now be on the side of “well care” vs “sick care”. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my husband and three grown children. I love anything outdoors, staying active and spending time with friends. I also am a proud Veteran of the U.S. Navy.

Expert Clinicians

Patient-First Care

At Optimize U, you’ll receive tailored healthcare from professionals who make your well-being their top concern.

Clinician Run

Our clinics are all run by licensed and trained healthcare professionals whose passion is making a difference in your life.

Clinician Led

By focusing on professionalism and friendliness, we empower our clinics to provide you the best care you’ll find anywhere.

Patient-Focused

We’re more than a clinic. We know our patients. We learn your unique needs. And we provide the care you need to live your healthiest life.

Expert Clinicians

Patient-First Care

At Optimize U, you’ll receive tailored healthcare from professionals who make your well-being their top concern.

Clinician Run

Our clinics are all run by licensed and trained healthcare professionals whose passion is making a difference in your life.

Clinician Led

By focusing on professionalism and friendliness, we empower our clinics to provide you the best care you’ll find anywhere.

Patient-Focused

We’re more than a clinic. We know our patients. We learn your unique needs. And we provide the care you need to live your healthiest life.

Revitalize Your Life

Explore our extensive array of services designed to align with your unique goals and aspirations.

Revitalize Your Life

Explore our extensive array of services designed to align with your unique goals and aspirations.

Discover the Impact:

Patient Experiences at Optimize U

Explore firsthand accounts of life-changing transformations through our patients’ stories.

"I've been on TRT with Optimize U now for over two years. They do a great job of taking care of you and staying on top of your bloodwork. I would highly suggest you give them a call or go in and talk to them. The staff is absolutely amazing every time."

- David

"Staff at Optimize U are so helpful, knowledgeable and care about the direction of your care. Fully recommend making an appointment if you’re interested in your health and wellbeing."

-Berry

"Amazing service. Great and friendly staff. Life changing results. Highly, highly, recommend to anyone looking to optimize their health and life."

-Andrew

Discover the Impact:

Patient Experiences at Optimize U

Explore firsthand accounts of life-changing transformations through our patients’ stories.

"I've been on TRT with Optimize U now for over two years. They do a great job of taking care of you and staying on top of your bloodwork. I would highly suggest you give them a call or go in and talk to them. The staff is absolutely amazing every time."

- David

"Staff at Optimize U are so helpful, knowledgeable and care about the direction of your care. Fully recommend making an appointment if you’re interested in your health and wellbeing."

-Berry

"Amazing service. Great and friendly staff. Life changing results. Highly, highly, recommend to anyone looking to optimize their health and life."

-Andrew

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost?

Optimize U designs hormone optimization plans for each individual patient. We have a full portfolio of products to suit the needs and goals of many different kinds of people. To that end, we work as a team to determine which products and services may best fit your goals and go from there. Our programs start as low as $165 per month and from there can increase based on which medications you and the provider deem are the bests fit for you.

What does the monthly fee include?

Our program provides hormone therapy that is designed to address specific issues with each person. We have a 3 Month minimum and a 30 Day cancellation policy. Our program includes:

  • All lab testing related to hormone optimization

  • All follow-up exams

  • All patient consultations

  • All physical examinations

  • A complete and personalized therapeutic program including all necessary drugs to maintain optimized hormone levels with the supplies needed

How much testosterone do I need?

Your team will carefully review your medical questionnaire, lab work, and records, and will prescribe the exact amount needed to optimize your levels. We use a combination of lab testing and continued monitoring of your results to identify the ideal dosages. Optimize U’s team uses creams, injections, or a combination of both.

Is testosterone optimization safe?

Yes. Many studies have shown that hormone therapy is safe when administered in the correct dosage and monitored by a qualified physician.

How long until I start to feel the result of hormone optimization

Some patients begin to feel the effects immediately. Most start to see benefits between 4-6 weeks, and about 25% take about 6 months to see benefits. What is important to remember is it took a long time for your body to get to this point and it may take a few months to get your hormones back to being optimized.

Being active, following our workout plan, and sticking to a healthy diet plan will expedite the benefits of hormone optimization.

What health issues are associated with testosterone deficiency?

Low testosterone in the male body can be the result of a disorder called Hypogonadism. Testosterone affects bone mass, fat distribution, and muscle development. In addition, testosterone helps to maintain energy levels, fertility, and sex drive.

Are there any side effects of testosterone replacement therapy?

As you consider whether or not testosterone therapy is right for you, there are side effects of testosterone replacement that you need to take into account. For example, if you already struggle with sleep apnea, testosterone therapy could potentially make your sleep apnea worse.

Another side effect could be decreased testicular size, and, in some cases, a decrease in sperm count. Fluid retention, liver toxicity, enlarged breast size, increased red blood cells, and acne are also potential side effects of testosterone replacement therapy. If you start to experience any negative side effects, report them to your local clinic immediately.

How do I refill my medication?

To make it easy and convenient for you, we have many ways to refill:

  • Use the “Refills” link found at the top of page

  • Text our 24-hour refill hotline

  • Call the clinic

  • Or just ask one of our staff next time you visit us

Remember that medications can take sometimes longer than a week to arrive at your home, so make sure to request refills when you have about 2 weeks of medication remaining.

How often is lab work done?

Lab work will be done every 3 to 6 months. Our staff will call you when your lab work is due. It is important to note that if you feel there is something not exactly right, you are always welcome to get your labs done early.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost?

Optimize U designs hormone optimization plans for each individual patient. We have a full portfolio of products to suit the needs and goals of many different kinds of people. To that end, we work as a team to determine which products and services may best fit your goals and go from there. Our programs start as low as $165 per month and from there can increase based on which medications you and the provider deem are the bests fit for you.

What does the monthly fee include?

Our program provides hormone therapy that is designed to address specific issues with each person. We have a 3 Month minimum and a 30 Day cancellation policy. Our program includes:

  • All lab testing related to hormone optimization

  • All follow-up exams

  • All patient consultations

  • All physical examinations

  • A complete and personalized therapeutic program including all necessary drugs to maintain optimized hormone levels with the supplies needed

How much testosterone do I need?

Your team will carefully review your medical questionnaire, lab work, and records, and will prescribe the exact amount needed to optimize your levels. We use a combination of lab testing and continued monitoring of your results to identify the ideal dosages. Optimize U’s team uses creams, injections, or a combination of both.

Is testosterone optimization safe?

Yes. Many studies have shown that hormone therapy is safe when administered in the correct dosage and monitored by a qualified physician.

How long until I start to feel the result of hormone optimization

Some patients begin to feel the effects immediately. Most start to see benefits between 4-6 weeks, and about 25% take about 6 months to see benefits. What is important to remember is it took a long time for your body to get to this point and it may take a few months to get your hormones back to being optimized.

Being active, following our workout plan, and sticking to a healthy diet plan will expedite the benefits of hormone optimization.

What health issues are associated with testosterone deficiency?

Low testosterone in the male body can be the result of a disorder called Hypogonadism. Testosterone affects bone mass, fat distribution, and muscle development. In addition, testosterone helps to maintain energy levels, fertility, and sex drive.

Are there any side effects of testosterone replacement therapy?

As you consider whether or not testosterone therapy is right for you, there are side effects of testosterone replacement that you need to take into account. For example, if you already struggle with sleep apnea, testosterone therapy could potentially make your sleep apnea worse.

Another side effect could be decreased testicular size, and, in some cases, a decrease in sperm count. Fluid retention, liver toxicity, enlarged breast size, increased red blood cells, and acne are also potential side effects of testosterone replacement therapy. If you start to experience any negative side effects, report them to your local clinic immediately.

How do I refill my medication?

To make it easy and convenient for you, we have many ways to refill:

  • Use the “Refills” link found at the top of page

  • Text our 24-hour refill hotline

  • Call the clinic

  • Or just ask one of our staff next time you visit us

Remember that medications can take sometimes longer than a week to arrive at your home, so make sure to request refills when you have about 2 weeks of medication remaining.

How often is lab work done?

Lab work will be done every 3 to 6 months. Our staff will call you when your lab work is due. It is important to note that if you feel there is something not exactly right, you are always welcome to get your labs done early.

Copyright © 2024 Optimize U Cincinnati - All Rights Reserved

Copyright © 2024 Optimize U Cincinnati - All Rights Reserved