What is integrative medicine?

Integrative medicine is a patient-centered approach that addresses the biological, psychological, social and spiritual aspects of health and illness. It is a very personalized approach that takes into consideration your unique conditions, needs, and circumstances. Integrative medicine utilizes multiple evidenced based disciplines to help prevent and heal illness and disease and help patients move toward optimal health.

It is based on a partnership between provider and patient, emphasizes respect for the human capacity for healing and utilizes more natural, less invasive therapies when appropriate.

Integrative medicine can be effective at treating chronic disease comprehensively and works with you to prevent disease development. By deeply examining your unique qualities, family history, lifestyle, social structure, and medical status, an individualized care plan is developed. Integrative medicine providers partner with you as well as your primary care provider (PCP) to help provide effective solutions.

Integrative medicine combines all forms of medicine beyond the traditional Western modelso a treatment plan may include diet modifications, nutritional or herbal supplements or recommendations for mind-body practices like meditation or hypnosis. Referral to other evidence-based modalities is utilized when needed, such as acupuncture or bodywork.

Integrative medicine may be a good fit for those who are interested in taking a deeper look at the cause of their diseases/symptoms and for those who are willing to make some changes to their lifestyle to achieve optimal health or to reduce their medications.

Integrative Medicine is a specialty service, and like most other specialties, you will still need a PCP. In some cases, it may be possible for your Integrative Medicine specialist to act as both.

Cheryl Beighle, MD, provides pediatric care at Marysville, Shoreline, and integrative cancer care for adults at Providence Regional Cancer Partnership Everett. To schedule an appointment, call 360-651-7492 for Marysville, 206-401-3200 for Shoreline and 425-297-5560 for the Cancer Partnership.

More here:
Integrative Medicine | The Everett Clinic