August 17, 2017–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.”
