New Initiative Combines Mainstream Medicine with Complementary Healing Approaches to Address the Needs of the Whole Person

MedStar Montgomery Medical Center has launched the MedStar Health Center for Integrative Medicine, a new initiative designed to promote patient centered care, focus on health and healing and improve outcomes by treating the whole person. 

Integrative medicine, which seamlessly combines mainstream medicine with non-conventional healing approaches , has proven to be beneficial in the treatment of individuals with a wide range of conditions—from cancer and chronic pain to orthopedic disorders to many of the common problems that affect women. It takes into account not only physical symptoms, but also the psychological, social and spiritual impact the condition may have on a person.

“The use of integrative medicine strategies is rooted in the desire to improve patient care and the practice is growing nationwide,” explains Emily Ratner, MD, director of the new center. “It’s an approach to care that puts the patient at the center and addresses the full range of physical, emotional, and spiritual influences that affect a person’s health.”

The center offers the following services:

• Integrative Medicine consultation
• Medical Acupuncture
• Psychological evaluation and holistic interventions
• Mindfulness-based approaches for stress and pain management
• Mind-body therapies, including meditation, progressive muscle relaxation
• Positive behavior change
• Guided Imagery
• Nutrition consultation and follow up visits
• Cooking and nutrition classes
• Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Classes
• Reiki
• Cognitive Behavioral therapy
• Massage therapy

The specialists at the center employ a personalized strategy that starts with an assessment of each patient’s unique conditions and circumstances to determine the most appropriate intervention for that individual. A treatment plan is then developed to address the patient’s specific needs so they can regain and maintain optimum health.   

Located at 18111 Prince Philip Drive, the Center is on the campus of MedStar Montgomery Medical Center in suite 202. Services are available to anyone and patients may be referred by a primary care physician or specialist.  Some insurance companies provide coverage for selected treatments for patients with certain conditions. Patients are encouraged to inquire with their insurance company whether integrative medicine services may be covered. 

Visit MedStarMontgomery.org/Healthy to learn more about the MedStar Health Center for Integrative Medicine.

MedStar Montgomery Medical Center is a 138-bed not-for-profit hospital serving the greater Baltimore and Washington metropolitan areas. A proud member of MedStar Health, MedStar Montgomery is committed to delivering the latest in modern medicine and medical technology.