Integrative medicine by Dr Choong

Integrative medicine is an approach to healthcare that combines conventional (mainstream) medicine with alternative or complementary therapies. The goal is to treat the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—rather than just focusing on symptoms or specific diseases. It emphasizes a patient-centered, holistic approach that integrates various healing practices alongside evidence-based medical treatments.

1. Patient-Centered Care: The focus is on building a therapeutic relationship between the patient and healthcare provider, ensuring that the patient’s preferences, values, and needs are central to the care plan.

2. Combining Conventional and Complementary Treatments: Integrative medicine uses scientifically supported practices from both traditional medicine (such as medications, surgeries, and diagnostic tests) and complementary therapies (like acupuncture, herbal medicine, yoga, meditation, and nutrition counseling).

3. Holistic Focus: It considers the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of health, recognizing that these dimensions are interconnected and that optimal health involves balancing all of them.

4. Prevention and Wellness: Emphasis is placed on prevention, healthy lifestyle practices (such as exercise, nutrition, and stress management), and promoting long-term wellness rather than just focusing on treating illness.

5. Personalized Treatment Plans: Treatments are tailored to the individual, taking into account their unique health profile, preferences, and goals.

Areas where integrative medicine may be of assistance: