University of Michigan Integrative Medicine

University of Michigan Integrative Medicine, an interdisciplinary program, is committed to the thoughtful and compassionate integration of complementary therapies and conventional medicine through the activities of research, education, clinical services, and community partnerships. As a healing-oriented approach to medical care, integrative medicine takes into account the whole person (body, mind, spirit, and emotion), including all aspects of lifestyle.

The vision, mission, and values of the University of Michigan Integrative Medicine (UMIM) program reflect our belief that patients and our community are best served when all available therapies are considered in concert with an approach that recognizes the intrinsic wholeness of each individual. It also reflects our belief that the best medicine is practiced in collaboration with a wide variety of healthcare professionals and with our patients.

• Our vision: To facilitate healing and wellness of mind, body, heart, and spirit through clinical services, research, and education.
• Our mission: To provide responsible leadership in the integration of
  complementary, alternative, and conventional medicine.
• Our values: To live and work in balance with the community, the environment, and each other. To touch beyond our reach and see beyond our vision.

 Program Description

University of Michigan Integrative Medicine consists of three primary components:

Clinical Services include the University of Michigan Integrative Medicine Clinic (UMIMC), Integrative Developments within UMHS and the
Healing Foods Pyramid (HFP).

UMIMC offers primary care services focusing on Integrative Medicine, Anthroposophic Medicine
and Holistic Medicine.

University of Michigan Integrative Medicine System-Wide Initiatives (UMIMC-SWI) are being documented and developed to provide patients in the University of Michigan Health System with an array of possible complementary therapies to support their conventional care.

Research Researchers from across the University of Michigan investigate use of CAM therapies in the prevention, management, and treatment of conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and rheumatologic disorders by undertaking basic science research, qualitative studies, clinical trials, and other types of research initiatives. Alternative modalities investigated include: acupuncture, nutrition, herbal medicine, spirituality, mind-body therapies, and energy medicine. Lifestyle change programs that include stress reduction and respite in nature are also actively researched.

Education Our Education program brings together students, physicians, allied health professionals, CAM practitioners, and educators to engage in lively dialogue, including professional growth in knowledge about CAM therapies and their context of relationship-centered care. The program provides medical education curricula, faculty development opportunities, and several interdisciplinary courses to support the study of integrative medicine.

What is Integrative Medicine?

Integrative Medicine is the practice of medicine that reaffirms the importance of relationship between practitioner and patient, focuses on the whole person, is informed by evidence, and makes use of all appropriate therapeutic approaches to achieve optimal health and healing.