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

Developed and adopted by the Consortium of Academic Health Centers for Integrative Medicine (www.IMconsortium.org)

The University of Washington Integrative Health Program (UW-IHP) started with an educational initiative funded through the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM).  This project concentrated on the integration of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) topics and experiential course work into the medical school curriculum. These efforts have reinforced patient-centered care by developing an open-minded approach towards patient preferences and a spirit of respectful collaboration with CAM providers.

As a result of this effort a robust educational and research collaboration has developed between the UW Schools of Medicine, Nursing, and Bastyr University that continues to grow.