Navigating the Healthcare System

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Our modern healthcare system is a complex maze that people sometimes find overwhelming.  As Ron Blumer states in his book The New Medicine: Companion Book to the Public Television Series,  "Welcome to the modern world of healthcare—an assembly line of tests, pills and even replaceable parts—in which amazing technology addresses our every need except perhaps the most crucial: the need to be treated and understood not just as a diseased body part, but as a person."

Proponents of integrative medicine are seeking to transform healthcare and change the system so that it is patient-centered and includes the wisdom inherent in healing the whole person—mind, body and spirit.  As this work begins to unfold and take root, there are simple things that you can do to help yourself and ensure that you and your loved ones get the best care possible.

To learn more, read one of the following stories: