FWD 2 Press Releases: 4th North American Research Conference on Complementary and Integrative Medicine
 
 
 

 

4th North American Research Conference on Complementary and Integrative Medicine

Austin, TX (April 28, 2009) The Consortium of Academic Health Centers for Integrative Medicine, a collection of 43 top medical schools in North America, will host the 4th North American Research Conference on Complementary and Integrative Medicine from May 12–15 at the Hilton Minneapolis Hotel.1 A full list of the 42 member medical centers can be accessed here.

Founded in 1999, the Consortium works to improve healthcare through rigorous scientific studies; new models of clinical care; and innovative educational programs that integrate biomedicine, human complexity, the nature of healing, and the rich diversity of therapeutic systems.1,2 Its main goal is to make a measurable difference in healthcare by implementing an integrative approach that incorporates mind, body, and spirit.2

“The renewed focus on national health reform has inspired new questions about the evidence and research necessary to support the claim that integrative medicine can be a foundational element of health system transformation,” said Victor Sierpina, MD, chair of the Consortium and ABC Advisory Board member, in a press release. “This conference is expected to help answer these important questions.”1

The conference will feature approximately 60 oral presentations, 250 poster presentations, and 30 symposia. Presentation topics include the following: spirituality, alternative health practices, and health status among college students; effects of mindfulness meditation on eating behavior, cortisol, and body fat distribution; nutrition, yoga, and journaling to improve clinical outcomes among adults with asthma; and the cost effectiveness of investing in complementary and integrative medicine. A special symposium will also be held on traditional Chinese medicine and medicinal herbs.

More information about the Consortium and conference is available at: www.imconsortium-conference.org. Session abstracts for the conference can be viewed here: www.liebertonline.com/acm.


References
  1. Advancements in Integrative Medicine Research to be Evaluated by Scientists from Leading International Academic Health Centers [press release]. Minneapolis, MN: Consortium of Academic Health Centers for Integrative Medicine. April 23, 2009.
  2. Consortium of Academic Health Centers for Integrative Medicine website. Available at http://www.imconsortium.org. Accessed April 24, 2009.