Integrative Holistic Medicine
What is integrative holistic medicine?
According to the American Board of Integrative Holistic Medicine, Lee Lipsenthal, MD, provides this definition of integrative holistic medicine in his introductory chapter to the doctors’ syllabus entitled, Integrative Holistic Medicine: The Science of Connection.
“Integrative medicine is the science combining multiple therapies with the goal of enhancing the patient’s optimal health; whereas holistic medicine is about approaching patients and individuals, living in a life system that impacts their health, with the awareness that you are part of that system.
“Integrative holistic medicine (IHM) then becomes the art and science of healing that addresses care of the whole person — body, mind, and spirit. The practice of integrative holistic medicine integrates conventional and complementary therapies to promote optimal health and to prevent and treat disease by addressing contributing factors.”
What are the core values of integrative holistic medicine?
The universal core values that Dr. Hall incorporates into her integrative holistic medicine philosophy and practice include:
- The healing power of love in treating each person with kindness, respect, and acceptance
- Optimal health as the primary goal for each individual
- Prevention and treatment of illness, while raising awareness of the patient’s lifestyle and factors to optimize health
- The whole person — body, mind, and spirit
- Integration of healing systems to consider all safe, effective treatments
- An innate healing power that’s within each individual
- Individuality which focuses on the unique needs of each person
- Teaching by example
- Learning opportunities from life experiences
- Relationship-centered care in which doctor and patient work together to achieve health goals
When you come to Expect Wellness, Dr. Hall takes these core principles into consideration so she can help you meet your goals, treat any illnesses, and live a healthier, happier life.
How is integrative holistic medicine different from functional medicine?
The integrative holistic approach to medicine is broader than functional medicine. Integrative holistic medicine incorporates functional medicine into health care as part of an overarching philosophy that addresses the six areas of health, including:
- Physical
- Mental
- Emotional
- Spiritual
- Social
- Environmental
Using these six factors, Dr. Hall evaluates each person as a whole system, so she can consider all of these aspects when creating a treatment plan to preserve your body or return it to optimal health. By addressing all areas of health as a whole, she creates the most effective, integrative treatment plan to restore or improve your condition.
Additionally, beyond functional medicine, integrative holistic medicine training exposes medical professionals to all types of medical approaches, including both traditional medicine and alternative therapies. Some of these that Dr. Hall regularly incorporates into her personalized treatment plans include:
- Acupuncture and herbal remedies (traditional Chinese medicine)
- Homeopathy
- Manual medicine
- Energy medicine
- Nutritional medicine
- Ayurvedic medicine
- Botanical medicine (essential oils/tinctures)
Dr. Hall uses all of these modes of therapy to meet your individual needs, helping you achieve your best personal health.
For a more comprehensive, whole-person approach to health and wellness for your entire family, contact Expect Wellness (in Columbia, SC) for an appointment.