Integrative Medicine

Integrative Medicine is a holistic approach to healthcare that takes account of the whole person (body, mind and spirit), including all aspects of lifestyle. It emphasizes the therapeutic relationship between patient and practitioner, and makes use of all appropriate therapies, both conventional and alternative.

How is Integrative Medicine Different?

Conventional Medicine Integrative Medicine
Manages disease Optimizes health
Treats symptoms Treats the whole person
Finds the problem
and fixes it
Identifies the risk and minimizes it
Uses high-tech,
biomedical interventions
Uses high-touch, whole person approaches
Reacts to existing
health issues
Anticipates possible health issues
and promotes prevention
Intervenes as needed Plans across the life span
Relies on the patient to achieve health goals Supports the patient to achieve health goals
Directed by the physician Guided by a partnership between patient, physician and a team of expert practitioners