Which of the following best describes the approach of integrative medicine?

The approach of integrative medicine is best described as a combination of various therapeutic practices. This model emphasizes the holistic treatment of the individual by integrating conventional medical practices with complementary and alternative therapies.

Integrative medicine recognizes that the best outcomes for patients often arise from employing a diverse array of treatment modalities. By combining evidence-based traditional medicine with complementary therapies such as acupuncture, nutrition, mindfulness, and herbal medicine, integrative medicine aims to address not just the physical symptoms of a condition but also the emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of health.

In contrast, reliance solely on traditional medical practices would exclude the beneficial aspects of alternative therapies, undermining the holistic approach that integrative medicine seeks to provide. Focusing only on patient self-management limits the scope of care to the individual’s ability to manage their own health without the support of professional treatments. Lastly, the exclusive use of alternative therapies would disregard the scientific evidence and resources available through conventional medicine, potentially compromising patient care. Therefore, the combination of various therapeutic practices truly captures the essence of integrative medicine.