East meets West with the practice of Integrative Medicine
Combining the two modalities offers a blended functional approach to care
[This article originally appeared in Reflections of Honor, Summer 2022]
Today, more and more people are looking for alternatives to Western medicine and conventional treatments, while striving to live a healthier lifestyle. Integrative medicine, a patient-focused, whole-person medical practice that uses both evidence-based and experienced-based therapies, is quickly becoming a popular option.
Integrative medicine emphasizes health and well-being as well as illness prevention through healthy living. It strives to prevent disease which translates to fewer medications and fewer visits to your doctor and hospital.
HonorHealth’s Integrative Medicine primary care practice is based on a model of health and wellness and revolves around the critical relationship between practitioner and patient. It combines alternative and conventional disciplines to treat holistically with a focus on the mind, body and spirit connection. A patient can expect their practitioner to use some combination of pharmaceuticals and supplements, preventative medicine and conventional treatments for optimum self-care.
Practitioners view patients as partners and work together as a team to ensure they receive the best care possible. The discipline addresses many factors, including the physical, emotional, social, spiritual and environmental influences that affect a person’s health. It treats not only immediate health concerns, but also the broader concepts of health that promote well-being now and into the future. Think nutrition, sleep patterns, hydration and stress management.
Many chronic health issues aren’t easily managed by conventional treatments and medication. In those cases, some people turn to a holistic approach of care by combining current treatment plans with the basics, such as exercise and pain management but also alternative therapies, including acupuncture, reflexology, massage and many others. At HonorHealth, our team-based approach looks for opportunities to improve overall wellness and help patients live their best life.
“Integrative medicine does not replace conventional care,” says Melinda Atienza, DO, Integrative and Functional medicine specialist at HonorHealth Integrative Medicine. “It gives us additional tools, and it allows the body to heal itself using natural therapies. Our focus is on promoting wellness and preventing illness through healthy living. This holistic approach sets the foundation for overall health and brings together conventional and complementary approaches in a coordinated way.”
Prescription medications may be appropriate and necessary, however for some patients they may not be completely effective or could have serious side effects. Integrative medicine offers natural alternatives that address these concerns and emphasizes less invasive treatments whenever possible.
HonorHealth patient Cindy G. has experienced the benefits of integrative medicine herself. “I have been battling stomach issues for as long as I can remember. Integrative medicine’s approach to wellness has been critical in my care and provides the best of both worlds—traditional medicine combined with therapies that understand the individual as a whole. I am confident that this approach will greatly improve my issues and overall wellness.”
Evolving over thousands of years, the practice of integrative medicine supports optimal health by addressing the root cause of disease. It can improve a person’s quality of life by addressing hormonal imbalances, improving immunity and inflammation through gut health and evaluating vitamin deficiencies and food sensitivities. Improved mental health may also be achieved by addressing many of these same causes.
“It’s not just a pill for an ill,” states Dr. Atienza. “I believe nature knows how to heal us.”
As the needs of our community continue to grow and change, the demand for complementary therapies also increases. Donors with a strong interest in this discipline have given generously to help launch this innovative program.
“When we look at how we can continue to elevate total patient care and the wellness of our entire community—Integrative Medicine brings it all together,” comments Ashleigh Leite, Senior Vice President of Major Gifts at HonorHealth Foundation.
Alternative Therapies Highlighted
Therapies offered by HonorHealth Integrative Medicine primary care include:
- Acupuncture
- Massage
- Yoga
- Tai chi
- Mindfulness and meditation
- Guided imagery
- Osteopathic manipulation
- Vitamin/herbal supplementation
- Bio-identical hormone therapy
For more information on HonorHealth’s Integrative Medicine Program, please e-mail Foundation@HonorHealth.com or call 480-587-5000.