Jerry Block, M.D., PhD. TUlsa, OK

Integrative medicine: Combining complementary and alternative
treatments with conventional care

What are Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)?
Alternative medicine refers to practices not typically used in conventional medicine
and it changes constantly as more and more treatments undergo study and are
proved to be effective. For example, this might mean using a homeopathic or
naturopathic remedy in lieu of traditional medical remedies.
Complementary medicine is thought of as treatments used in addition to the
conventional therapies your doctor may prescribe, such as using tai chi or massage
in addition to prescription medicine for anxiety.

More than half of all people in the US try some kind of alternative treatment.
Many health care institutions, including the Mayo Clinic, have begun integrating
therapies that aren't part of mainstream medicine into their treatment programs. As
complementary and alternative therapies prove effective, they're being combined more
often with conventional care. This is known as integrative medicine. Dr. Block is
practicing integrative medicine by offering complementary treatments along with
conventional treatment. For instance, he may prescribe an omega-3 fatty acid
supplement to help keep your heart healthy in addition to statins prescribed to
reduce your cholesterol.

Dr. Block believes that prevention is the key to good health. Taking steps to better
your health before you get sick is the best way to keep yourself healthy. Your body
has the ability to heal itself and Dr. Block facilitates treatments that encourage your
body's natural healing processes. His focus is on treating you as a whole person -
recognizing that physical health, mental well-being, relationships and spiritual needs
are interconnected and play a part in your overall health.

Many medical doctors are opposed to complementary and alternative medicine and
many doctors practicing today did not receive training in CAM therapies, so they
may not feel comfortable addressing questions in this area. Dr. Block, however, has
decades of experience not only in conventional medicine, but also in Integrated
Medical Care.

The U.S. government has established a National Center for Complementary and
Alternative Medicine to help guide the public in making wise choices when it comes
to complementary and alternative treatments. http://www.ccam.nih.gov

Dr. Block's book contains a wealth of information as does the Mayo Clinic Book of
Alternative Medicine