National University is expanding its efforts to ensure alternative care reaches more underserved populations. In August, six students will be volunteering at an IM4US (Integrative Medicine for the Underserved) Conference aimed at spreading awareness about integrative medicine to interdisciplinary health care providers and students.
“We’re looking forward to being part of IM4US efforts to educate health providers about the integrative approach,” said NUHS President Joseph Stiefel, MS, EdD, DC. “A common misconception is that integrative medicine is only for the wealthy, when it is in fact much more cost-efficient, particularly for those with chronic illness.”
Over 300 acupuncturists, oriental medicine practitioners, naturopathic doctors, nutritionists, physicians, nurses, etc., are expected to attend the three-day event Aug. 24-26 at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago.
In addition to providing volunteers, National University will sponsor the research portion of the conference that includes 18 poster presentations and three breakout sessions. NUHS will also help fund IM4US’s first annual research prizes for “Outstanding Young Investigator” and “Outstanding Research Innovation.”
“There will be so many opportunities to learn about what integrative medicine is and how various modalities can be used in conjunction with traditional medicine,” said Caroline Jung, MSOM, Dipl. Ac., an IM4US conference planning member and president emeritus of the Illinois Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.
Jung hopes the conference encourages major health facilities and physicians to take action either by hiring more alternative medicine practitioners in-house or referring out. Another goal is to get more coverage for alternative care under health care insurance. In the meantime, the group is spreading the word about affordable treatments options like “community acupuncture” which provides treatments in group settings.
“This conference will focus on health care disparities and how we can best deliver integrative care to communities in need in this challenging health care environment,” said IM4US President-elect Priscilla Abercrombie, RN, NP, PhD. “We welcome health care providers from all disciplines, administrators, students and patients to come together to learn, support and advocate for those suffering from oppression.”
To register and purchase tickets visit the IM4US conference website.
Throughout its history, National University has helped bring chiropractic, naturopathic, acupuncture and massage therapy treatments to underserved populations. Since 1988, chiropractic students have staffed clinics at two Salvation Army rehabilitation centers. Naturopathic medicine students currently serve three-week rotations at the Salvation Army clinic where they treat patients who are often homeless, drug-addicted or who have recently suffered tragedy in their lives. NUHS acupuncture interns also provide free acupuncture treatments to pain patients at Stroger Hospital in Chicago as part of an acupuncture clerkship. Additionally, the Veterans Clinic on the Lombard campus provides free acupuncture and cupping to veterans along with discounts for other services.
To learn more about the discounted rates and services available at the NUHS Whole Health Center visit the website or call (630) 629-9664.
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