Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #108255

Ramona M. Rubin, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 917 Sylvan Ave #1, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, 831-566-0926, rmrubin@umich.edu

Objectives: Integrative Medicine (IM) is an emerging healing practice that encompasses modalities of healing from an array of sources and traditions, merging them into a coherent treatment unique for each individual patient. Data collection from integrative care in a clinical setting allows for the observation of healing of real patients in a real practice setting. Descriptive data characterizing the IM Well Clinic patient population provide clinicians and clinic planners a better sense of the unique needs of their clients. The identification of variables and instruments that are applicable to the paradigm of integrative medicine will open opportunities to future research. Methods: An examination of theoretical models of holistic health and healing and assessment of the data sources and information currently collected in clinical practice informs how to measure the elements and dimensions of total or holistic wellness. Intake forms and questionnaires were translated into variables for inclusion in a clinic database. The intake form includes a holistic health questionnaire that is to be validated for future research. These forms were coded and analyzed for themes in content and relationships between constructs. Information from patient records is entered into a database. Results: Descriptive data of the patient population is being generated as well as a report recommending further actions for research in this area. A model of healing as a transformative process will continue to be refined as it guides this research.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to

• Evaluate the holistic health questionnaire as tool for measuring holistic health and wellness.
• Describe its use in clinical outcomes studies.
• Describe the role of outcomes studies in integrative medicine.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.