Development of an Integrative Medicine Rotation for Family Medicine and Preventive Medicine Residency

Integrative medicine or complementary and alternative medicine (IM/CAM) is widely utilized by patients despite the limited training available across health care education. There is a gap between patient interest and the need for guidance amid a lack of preparation among clinicians in IM/CAM. To address this, the Baltimore Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center created a US Department of Veterans Affairs-based whole health rotation that incorporates core IM/CAM competencies for family medicine and preventive medicine residents.

A structured 2-week IM/CAM curriculum was developed by medical school faculty in cooperation with a range of health care professionals. Assessments, including surveys and a case analysis, measured overall program satisfaction, perception of IM/CAM modalities, IM/CAM knowledge, confidence in pain care, self-care perception, self-care practice, and burnout symptom frequency. Residents participating in the IM/CAM rotation reported positive experiences overall, gained knowledge for their own personal benefit, and acquired resources and skills they felt confident discussing with their patients. They also reported a slight decrease in feelings of burnout and perceived stress.

IM/CAM education, delivered as a standardized family medicine rotation, enhances resident capacity to make informed decisions and counsel patients on IM/CAM options, while also providing strategies for maintaining optimal health and well-being.