International Community Health Services - ICHS | Seattle

What is integrative medicine?

Integrative medicine is an approach to health care that affirms the importance of the relationship between holistic health, evidence-informed data, and the use of appropriate therapeutic remedies to achieve optimal health and healing. Watch our vodcast about integrative medicine with Dr. Hannah Gordon, naturopathic physician at the ICHS International District Medical Clinic.

Who is integrative medicine for?

Many people can benefit from integrative medicine, including healthy people. Individuals with long-lasting (chronic) or complex conditions who want a different treatment plan, patients who wish to avoid conventional medication, and those looking to reverse pre-diabetes and pre-hypertension through lifestyle changes may especially find the approach helpful. Integrative medicine can help you find relief for many health and medical conditions, including:

• Acute and chronic pain
• Autoimmune diseases
• Cardiology (hypertension, hypercholesterolemia)
• Dermatology (eczema, psoriasis)
• Endocrinology (prediabetes, diabetes, thyroid disorders)
• Gastrointestinal disorders (chronic abdominal pain, GERD/heartburn/reflux, IBD, IBS, SIBO)
• Integrative oncology: supportive care, especially for side effects. (Patient must be working with an oncologist to be seen for this supportive care.)
• Mental health (anxiety, depression, insomnia)
• Neurology (peripheral neuropathy, tension headaches and migraines)
• Respiratory disorders (allergies, asthma, recurrent sinusitis)
• Women's health (menopause, menstrual cycle changes, recurrent gynecological concerns)

What should I expect during a visit?

The first appointment is a 60-minute visit where we review your health history, explore your concerns, and focus on your goals. Please bring all medications, supplements, and vitamins that you are currently taking to your first appointment. Subsequent visits last about 30 minutes.

How can I schedule a visit?

Speak with your primary care provider about your concerns and they will place a referral if appropriate. The front desk at the clinic can help you schedule.