Integrated Health Centre in Pembroke has always had a small gym and has always focused on nutrition for patients. Integrated means just that, that there are differing disci-plines, working together, using their skills and expertise and recognizing and appreciating that of their colleagues in the endless pursuit of what is best for the patient. “In my mind, for an integrated setting to be truly effective, no matter which portal of entry a patient chooses, the prac-titioner in contact must look at the patient as a complete person, not just a list of symptoms. And once she or he has decided the problem is of a functional nature, steer the patient to the right discipline within the clinic.” At Port Moody Integrated Health, new patients choose to book an appointment with a chiropractor, naturopathic doctor, massage therapist or counsellor. Port Moody Inte-grated Health has two chiropractors, four registered massage therapists and a naturopathic doctor. During this initial visit, the practitioner engages in a 36 Canadian Chiropractor December 2013 discussion with the patient about the factors impacting the patient’s health, explains his/her approach and works with the patient to develop a wellness program, with discussion of how other practitioners/disciplines might support their program. “Patients are asked why they chose to come to our clinic and what they know about our approach,” says Dr. McCann. “We ask them about their expectations, short-term and long-term.” He adds, “When a patient is recognized as a candidate for an integrated approach and they follow through, we get to watch their lives change as a result of all they have done and the work of different disciplines, including family physicians and specialists. They shift their paradigms from looking at themselves as sick or broken, to ‘I’m getting better and I feel empowered and hopeful about my health.’ And that is truly health care.” At the Integrated Health Centre in Pembroke, all new patients see one of the two chiropractors, the primary care providers who employ what they call “top-down” integrated care. That is, the chiropractor sees patients, evaluates them and treats them either directly or through delegation to others working under their direction. On its website, Intergrated Health Centre outlines its mission and vision: to educate as an integral component of the healing process; maximize its clients’ health potential; provide a range of alternative health solutions; optimize opportunities for healing; work towards the ultimate goal of wellness; engage clients in preventive health care; and restore life’s balance. www.canadianchiropractor.ca Photos: Integrated Health Centre
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