US Institute of Medicine champions integrated approaches

16 Jan 09

Source: Institue of Medicine/Bravewell Collaborative

A conference in the US will bring together big players to argue the case for a more integrated approach to healthcare.

The Institute of Medicine is an independent leading advisor in the US on health matters.  It is holding a Summit on Integrative Medicine and the Health of the Public in February 2009.  Funded by the Bravewell Collaborative, it's a signficant step towards a more integrated, patient-centred system of healthcare.

Many issues present in the UK are reflected in the state of US healthcare.  The conference organisers report that five chronic conditions account for more than half of all US health expenditure: mood disorders, diabetes, heart disease, asthma and high blood pressure.   Many of these chronic conditions are preventable.

Issues discussed include the scientific basis for integrative medicine, patient centred care and mind-body relationships in health.

The President of IOM, Dr Henry Feinberg said 'Interest in integrative medicine is reaching a tipping point from all sectors of the health care . The National Summit provides an opportunity to examine scientifically-proven integrative approaches to health care including models of care and clinical programs that work as a potential pathway to improving the current system.'

Places at the conference have now all been filled, but you can find out more here.