The Bravewell Collaborative Hosts Educational Forum on Successful Models of Integrative Medicine
Leading Experts Share How Integrative Medicine is Improving Health Outcomes and Reducing Medical Costs
NEW YORK, Nov. 10, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Hospitals, health systems and the military are using integrative models of care to improve health outcomes and reduce the burden of medical costs. At an educational forum hosted by the Bravewell Collaborative, leading health experts shared innovative and integrative approaches to care that are working to transform our current health system.
At Allina Hospitals and Clinics in Minneapolis, Minn., integrative strategies have been shown to reduce pain scores by 55 percent. "Integrative strategies have helped us achieve and sustain significant reduction in moderate to severe depression, presenteeism and chronic pain management," said Penny Ann Wheeler, M.D., Chief Clinical Officer of Allina Hospitals & Clinics. In one year alone, the number of physicians referring patients to integrative care has increased by 400 percent.
Representatives from the U.S. military shared how integrative medicine is being incorporated into care delivery. In May 2010, the Army Pain Management Task Force released a report with 109 recommendations to support a standardized approach to pain management that optimizes care for warriors and their families. "The Army has moved away from using only medications for treating a very complicated problem," said Colonel Kevin Galloway, Chief of Staff for the Army's Pain Management Task Force. "Acupuncture and massage are now an important part of managing chronic pain."
At the Arizona Air Force and National Guard, they've implemented an integrative wellness program to encourage and sustain healthy fitness and lifestyles. The program includes mindfulness, mindful eating, integrative health coaching and resilience training. Speakers noted the program has been so successful it is being considered for Air Force-wide implementation.
"Our health care system is evolving and integrative care is showing great promise," said Christy Mack, Bravewell Collaborative President and Founder. "Today's event is an important step in working together and using integrative approach to foster health and improved patient care."
Integrative Medicine in Action, hosted by the Bravewell Collaborative, was held in New York on November 10, 2011.
Formed in 2002, the Bravewell Collaborative is a community of philanthropists in the United States dedicated to bringing about optimal health and healing for individuals and society. An operating foundation, Bravewell develops and manages strategic initiatives that support integrative approaches to healthcare. For more information, visit www.bravewell.org.
SOURCE Bravewell Collaborative
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