This is a significant period in the development of contemporary medicine, as many forces merge
together. The evolving integration of conventional medicine and alternative approaches to healing can
provide innovative and effective solutions for both practitioners and those they serve. Let’s review
some of the aspects of this evolving process, and consider where the journey might lead.
For the purpose of this article, we first define some terms. Integrative medicine means the combining
of conventional medicine and alternative approaches to healing. We refer to conventional, western, or
allopathic medicine as what is most common in the United States at this time. Alternative approaches
cover a wide range of healing modalities outside of the conventional mainstream. The terms holistic
and complimentary are typically applied to either alternative approaches, or to approaches that are
involved in some way with more conventional treatments. Another related term is traditional medicine,
which we view as representing age old healing practices, often from various cultures like Oriental
medicine or Native American healing techniques. Currently, traditional modalities are also being used
in a complementary way with conventional medical approaches.
Pioneers establish new concepts
Looking at some early pioneers of this evolving journey, we can see an increase of developments since
1970. In 1974, David Bressler, Ph.D. created the Center for Integral Medicine at UCLA, where health
professionals were introduced to the new concepts of alternative and holistic medicine. At the same
time, Delores Krieger, Ph.D. began teaching Therapeutic Touch at New York University Nursing School
and to nurses across the country. This enabled an ancient modality to be practiced in hospitals
nationwide. During the same period, Elizabeth Kubler-Ross, MD revolutionized concepts of death and
dying for the medical profession. Another major contributor during this early fertile period was Hans
Selye, MD, who provided critical research on stress as a significant factor in the disease process.
Acceptance of the integrative approach in medical practices was beginning to take root.
Many dimensions of this integrative medicine movement have been further cultivated since that early
period. The pioneers of that time opened the door to understanding the vital importance of the healing
powers within the individual. In current times, we continue to move away from the focus on
identifying symptoms and treating disease as something separate from the individual. It is becoming
recognized in the best medical research that patients do have innate self-healing capabilities.
Modalities such as meditation and biofeedback are excellent demonstrations of the transformative
effect that the mind and body can have on one another. In a variety of disease states, factors such as
emotions, attitudes and spiritual beliefs become important forces in healing. With this, we are moving
towards respect for the interconnectedness of all parts, and the integrity of the whole person as a
system.
Dr. Joan Borysenko, Ph.D. and author of The Power of the Mind to Heal is a current leader in the field.
She refers to the need to find healthcare practitioners who recognize this new terrain, and can help us
select the best options among many unfamiliar choices. It helps to have a good map.
Focus on individual empowerment
Another significant aspect of the movement toward integrative medicine is well described by pioneer,
Larry Dossey, MD. Dr. Dossey is an internist and author of many books, most recently The Future of
Medicine. In over 20 years of well-respected research, Dr. Dossey often emphasizes the importance of
consciousness and spirituality on one’s health. He proposes that the role of spirituality in our medical
care system is our next frontier.
Additionally, the alternative/holistic approach is enriching mainstream medicine by emphasizing the
participation of the patient in the healing process. Trust and communication between the health
practitioner and patient are increasingly valued as a crucial aspect of successful healing. This new
focus on the empowerment of the individual encourages increased self-awareness and consciousness.
This creates a more expanded perspective of the meaning of illness. Individuals can learn to explore
symptoms as messengers and indicators rather than invaders.
We have described some of the many facets of the expanding new model of integrative medicine. It
can be said that we are currently at a critical time for change in this field. Recent developments in
science not only expose the limitations of western medicine, but they often support the integration of
alternative approaches into the mainstream. What are our next steps in this journey? How do we
create a more integrative approach to medicine?
Need to transcend differences
Abundant scientific evidence shows us that strengthening the immune system and working with
patients’ stress factors can effectively treat, and often prevent disease. It is commonly acknowledged
that at least 70% of diseases in our country relate directly to the body or mind’s reaction to chronic
stress. These are some of the areas which conventional medicine often does not address. Alternative
and holistic approaches are focused on assisting the patient to vitalize the immune system, enhance
the healing potential of their mind and body, and create balance in their lives. An increase of research
regarding alternative and complimentary approaches, and more sharing of research between
disciplines would be a significant step toward a more integrated medical system.
There are currently many perspectives among the conventional medical profession and those in the
alternative healing field that are in disagreement with one another regarding what creates and
promotes health. If the view of one group dominates, as is presently the case, real and sometimes
superior options can be overlooked. Truly integrative healthcare must honor a model where differing
views carry equal weight. Academics have called this a polycentric model of healthcare. A polycentric
model transcends the differences among modalities and focuses, rather, on the best that each
approach has to offer for each patient’s individual situation. By not denying the fullness of all of our
resources we can focus on what works.
There is turmoil and dissatisfaction in the conventional medical field at this time, among both those
receiving services and those working in the medical field. Nurses, and even doctors, are leaving the
profession. The health care delivery system, with complexities created by laborious health insurance
plans, impersonal hospital corporations, and the heavy handed influence of pharmaceutical companies,
can often seem like an unchangeable force.
Research exchange is key to integrated model
Despite obstacles that might be experienced while looking for options in the conventional medicine
system, individuals increasingly continue to ask for holistic and complimentary approaches to be
integrated into their medical treatment. As research continues to show benefits, as success stories,
word of mouth, and the natural process of change moves forward, it is possible for individuals to learn
more about their choices, participate in their health care more fully, and gain easier access to an
integrated approach to treatment.
There are many ways to create increased dialogue, understanding and flexibility among the diverse
participants in this process. A willingness to respectfully exchange support and information, including
research between conventional medical practitioners, alternative/holistic therapists, individual clients,
and the public at large can accomplish much toward bringing various therapeutic disciplines toward
more common ground. Step by step, a healthy and integrated system will emerge as an educated
public demands more inclusive medical approaches.
by Virginia Parr, R.N., L.C.S.W. and William Millard, L.Ac.
Virginia Parr is a nurse, licensed clinical social worker, and director of Health Education And Resources
Training. She uses an integrative approach to help individuals learn about options and develop skills to
promote their health. 804-353-1991.
Bill Millard, traditional Acupuncturist, now includes a modality called BodyTalk in his practice. BodyTalk
uses elements from Chinese medicine, Ayurvedic medicine, chiropractic, bio-energetic therapy, yoga,
and meditation. 804-874-5023.
