Define integrative medicine and explain why it has become a growing trend among physicians and health care systems within the United States. Give an example

Answer 1

Integrative medicine is a preventative and proactive approach to health and wellness that encompasses all aspects of the individual's lifestyle, taking into account the whole person, not just the disease or illness. It is based on a partnership between the patient and the doctor, where the ultimate goal is to treat the body, mind, and spirit. It can further involve principles of preventive medicine and therapies not accepted as "typical" medical practice, including prayer, meditation, social support, and recreation.

Many patients are turning to integrative medicine because of dissatisfaction with their health care providers—reporting scheduling frustrations, unclear communication, lack of involvement in treatment decisions, or limited time with physicians to adequately discuss health concerns. As a result, integrative medicine has become a growing trend among physicians and health care systems within the United States, with integrative medicine departments being instituted at several universities, hospitals, and various treatment centers.

As an example, many cancer treatment centers have instituted integrative programs that offer acupuncture, massage, meditation, and other forms of counseling or therapies to ease pain and side effects from conventional treatments like chemotherapy.