ANSWERS: 1
  • Holistic medicine is an increasingly popular branch of medicine. In the United States, it is classified as a form of complementary alternative medicine. The American Holistic Medical Association (AHMA) sets specific guidelines for defining holistic physicians.

    Patient-Centered Treatment

    According to AHMA, a patient is ultimately responsible for her own treatment. Holistic medicine honors the patient's observations, beliefs, opinions and lifestyle choices.

    Doctor-Patient Partnership

    Holistic physicians aim to foster a strong relationship between the doctor and patient. Many practitioners believe that a sense of trust and respect is essential to the healing process.

    Curative Treatment

    Many advocates of holistic medicine believe that conventional medicine often fails to provide curative treatment. Holistic doctors believe that medicine should focus on curing illnesses as well as providing symptomatic relief.

    Worldview

    According to AHMA, holistic practitioners believe that "unconditional love is life's most powerful medicine." Many doctors consider this to be a component of a worldview that focuses on individual, cultural and global transformation.

    Education

    Holistic physicians differ from other holistic practitioners in that they have doctorate degrees, usually as medical doctors. Some self-described holistic doctors have "Doctor of Naturopathy" degrees from unaccredited institutions.

    Source:

    American Holistic Medical Association

Copyright 2023, Wired Ivy, LLC

Answerbag | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy