Introduction: While the term integrative medicine has a well-established definition, the term “integrative health” does not although it gains popularity.

Methods: Using a systematic, mixed-methods approach (surveys and expert discussion) we developed a working definition for integrative health (Oct 2013-Sept 2015). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative analyses.

Results: Survey responses (n=188) came mainly from North America (72.3%; respondents: 40.4% primarily clinical, 22.3% research and 22.9% teaching). Three quarters (73.9%) believed that there is a difference between integrative medicine and integrative health. Respondent’s suggestions included to shorten and simplify the definition, but to keep the components that distinguish it from integrative medicine. The final version was developed by the expert group and resulted in a final 96-word working definition: “Integrative health is a state of well-being in body, mind and spirit that reflects aspects of the individual, community and population. It is affected by: 1) individual biological factors and behaviors, social values, and public policy, 2) the physical, social and economic environments, and 3) an integrative health care system that involves the active participation of the individual and the health care team in applying a broad spectrum of preventive and therapeutic approaches. Integrative health encourages individuals, social groups, and communities to develop ways of living that promote meaning, resilience and wellbeing across the life course.”

Defining integrative health is expected to facilitate communication and scholarship among experts in this emerging field.

Conclusion: The definition is expected to facilitate communication and scholarship among experts in this emerging field.

Publication:

Witt CM, Chiaramonte D, Berman S, Chesney MA, Kaplan GA, Stange KC, Woolf SH, Berman B. Defining health in a comprehensive context: a new definition of integrative health. Am J of Prev Med. 2016; doi: 10.1016/j.amepre.2016.11.029.

Principle investigator:
Witt, MD, MBA

Cooperation:
Chiaramonte
Berman S
Chesney
Kaplan
Stange
Woolf
Berman B

Project status:
completed

Funding:
The Institute for Integrative Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA