Integrative Medicine Initiative at USESOM

June 15, 2007

USESOM has made giant strides towards reaching its objective to offer training and education in complementary and alternative medicine (i.e., systems of healing from other cultures and philosophies) to its students.  In the Fall of 2007, the first phase of USESOM’s multi-phase initiative will be launched—  implementation of an elective Introduction to Integrative Medicine course into its curriculum. 

The Introductory course will be held from 9 a.m. to noon on two different Saturdays during the semester. The main topic of the first session will be a general introduction to complementary modalities and alternative frameworks of healing.  The second session will consist of demonstrations of specific healing techniques such as herbal medicine, massage therapy, breathing exercises, meditation, and acupuncture.   A luncheon will conclude each session.   Students who complete the Introductory course will earn a basic certificate in integrative medicine.

Future phases of the initiative to educate our students in an integral health approach include offering more extensive training and educational programs in complementary and alternative medicine.  Depending on students’ level of involvement, students have the opportunity to earn an advanced certificate, a diploma and/or a Master’s degree in integrative medicine.  These credentials can be earned while simultaneously completing the Basic Sciences M.D. program.  The supplementary courses will be taught by practitioners who have specific talents, skills or knowledge within osteopathic, naturopathic, chiropractic, Chinese, traditional and other complementary models of healing.