What is Integrative Medicine?


Integrative Medicine is the combination of conventional medicine with complementary medicine, and aims to identify and address the big picture relating to lifestyle factors, psychosocial determinants of health, physical health, mental health, spiritual health, epigenetics, nutrition, microbiome and environmental toxins. It is structured around patient-centred care and the coordination of multiple members of the health team, e.g. GP, Specialist, Naturopath, Myotherapist, Acupuncturist, who each have their specific role in supporting the patient, in a way that is meaningful and in line with the patient’s wants and needs. Integrative Medicine takes a multifaceted approach using the best evidence-based approaches to treat the underlying cause of disease and reduce the need for unnecessary medications. Information is shared across the various health professionals and collaborative decision-making between patients and practitioners is foundational to the care model.

Preventative medicine is the primary focus with an aim of reversing chronic non-communicable disease states. This is done in collaboration with a patient’s GP to ensure reduction of medication use is indicated by improved blood work or pathology results.

Whole Health Model of Care showing the pillars of health that are involved in integrative healthcare
Icons representing nutrition, exercise, substance abuse, healthy relationships, stress, and sleep.

What does the 6 pillars of Lifestyle Medicine look at?

Illustration of a food pyramid with three levels: whole grain products at the bottom, proteins, dairy, and healthy fats in the middle, and vegetables and fruit at the top.
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