What to Know About Integrative Medicine Doctors

For much of the 20th century, conventional and “alternative” medicine were often seen as opposing forces. However, a growing body of evidence demonstrates the effectiveness of nonconventional therapies like acupuncture and herbal medicine in treating a variety of symptoms. This has paved the way for a more integrated approach to healthcare, one that is gaining popularity as people seek treatments that address the whole person.

From Disease Management to a Deeper Understanding

Integrative medicine focuses on the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit, moving away from the siloed approach where healthcare often centers on a single organ or system. More individuals, particularly those with chronic conditions who haven’t found relief through conventional methods, are turning to integrative doctors. Simultaneously, institutions like Mount Sinai, Northwell Health, and the Mayo Clinic are increasingly embracing integrative care, especially for conditions like pain, musculoskeletal issues, and cancer treatment-related symptoms.

According to a 2025 survey, 80% of leaders in healthcare organizations believe health outcomes are better for patients receiving integrative care compared to the general population. This perception is supported by a large-scale observational study from 2022, which found significant improvements in physical function, anxiety, depression, fatigue, pain, and sleep among those using integrative practices like acupuncture, massage, biofeedback, and chiropractic care.

“Whole person care means I’m treating your biology, behavior, environment, stress load, and values — not just your lab results,” explains Tokunbo Akandé M.D., a pediatrician and integrative medicine physician. While primary care physicians often inquire about lifestyle factors, integrative medicine doctors undergo specialized fellowship training focused on evidence-based holistic health and complementary therapies. These fellowships, recognized by the American Board of Physician Specialties, typically last one to two years.

Integrative medicine doctors are fully trained physicians who utilize conventional medical protocols, including tests and prescriptions, but also delve deeper to understand the underlying factors contributing to illness—such as stress, diet, lifestyle, and environment. As Darshan Mehta, M.D., medical director at the Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital, puts it, “[Integrative medicine] is like a three-legged stool. There’s an important role for pharmaceuticals, surgery, and self-care.”

An integrative doctor’s toolkit often includes evidence-based complementary approaches such as dietary changes, mind-body techniques (meditation, hypnosis, yoga), and body-based interventions (acupuncture, massage, chiropractic manipulation).

What an Integrative Medicine Appointment Is Like

An integrative medicine appointment begins like a conventional visit, with a medical history review, clinical exam, and diagnostic tests. However, doctors often ask broader, more in-depth questions, focusing on all aspects of a patient’s life. “We spend time understanding the patient’s story — sleep, nutrition, stress, relationships, work demands — because those are often where the answers to the underlying problems live,” says Dr. Akandé.

Treatment plans may combine conventional and nonconventional approaches. For example, a patient with anxiety might receive medication alongside mind-body tools to calm the nervous system. Similarly, a patient with chronic pain might be prescribed pain medication and hypnosis to reduce their reliance on medication, according to Manuela Kogon, M.D., an integrative medicine internist at Stanford University School of Medicine.

Ritu Goel, M.D., an integrative psychiatrist, emphasizes a thorough evaluation before recommending integrative treatments like vitamins and supplements, considering factors like medical history, diet, stress levels, and potential interactions with medications.

Visits typically last 60 to 90 minutes, and treatment philosophies can vary among practitioners. Some prioritize non-pharmaceutical approaches, while others combine medication with non-pharmacological treatments.

Why Many Integrative Doctors Don’t Take Insurance

Insurance coverage for integrative medicine can be limited, as insurers often only reimburse for brief appointments. “Integrative medicine often involves longer visits, counseling, and lifestyle-focused work that isn’t well reimbursed under current insurance models,” explains Dr. Akandé. Out-of-network benefits may offer some coverage, but complementary therapies like herbal medicine or massage are often not considered medically necessary.

Patients are encouraged to inquire about costs, insurance participation, and the expenses associated with recommended treatments.

How to Vet an Integrative Practitioner

It’s important to verify an integrative medicine doctor’s credentials. Practitioners should hold an M.D. Or D.O. Degree and have completed a fellowship recognized by the American Board of Physician Specialties. Consider asking about their treatment philosophy, areas of expertise, and typical recommendations.

• Are you an M.D. Or DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine)?
• Where did you do your fellowship?
• Do you have any philosophy or lean on any particular approaches?
• What conditions do you treat?
• What treatments do you typically recommend?
• Do you sell supplements directly?

An integrative medicine doctor may be a good fit for those seeking an evidence-based, collaborative approach to exploring complementary therapies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between integrative and conventional medicine?

Integrative medicine focuses on the whole person, considering biology, behavior, environment, stress, and values, while conventional medicine often focuses on specific organs or systems.

What types of treatments might an integrative doctor recommend?

Integrative doctors may recommend dietary changes, mind-body techniques (meditation, yoga), and body-based interventions (acupuncture, massage) in addition to conventional treatments like medication.

How long does an integrative medicine appointment typically last?

A visit generally lasts 60 to 90 minutes.

As more people seek holistic approaches to health, will integrative medicine become more mainstream?