Integrating CAM into traditional cancer treatments in Chicago

The Cancer Integrative Medicine Program at Rush University Medical Center focuses on dealing with the emotional, psychological, and spiritual effects of cancer.

According to the press release, healthcare professionals from Rush and the community work collaboratively with patients to address their unique needs. Care is provided either on the Rush campus or nearby locations.

CAM treatment options include the following.

• Acupuncture for the management of various types of pain.
• Biofeedback
• Guided imagery to achieve relaxation, reduce heart rate and heal illness.
• Herbal counseling by a doctor of pharmacy to identify interactions between traditional chemotherapy and herbal medicines.
• Individual counseling to help identify the emotional aspects of being diagnosed and treated for cancer.
• Massage therapy for its emotional and psychological benefits.
• Medical hypnosis
• Nutritional counseling to promote good health or treat illness
• Yoga to promote relaxation and reduces stress.

The bottom line?
The program at Rush is not unique as described here and here. However, collaboration among healthcare professionals at a large, respected teaching institution with its access to students, residents, and fellows, will have far reaching effects on cancer treatment throughout the US.

10/14/07 19:09 JR