Integrative cancer care is the practice of providing whole-person care by combining conventional treatments for cancer (such as chemotherapy, radiation, surgery) with complementary (naturopathic) therapies that will best serve the needs of the patient based on their diagnosis, prognosis, treatment history and individual preferences. In most cases, naturopathic cancer therapies are best used alongside or in conjunction with conventional treatments for cancer. A naturopathic physician with extensive training and experience in the field of integrative cancer care can assist patients in making informed decisions for their cancer treatments.
Cancer is a complex and multi-faceted disease. Evidence demonstrates better outcomes (both short term and long term) are achieved when cancer is treated with a multi-dimensional integrative medical approach that treats the whole person and engages the physical and the mind-body aspects of healing. This evidence has been the basis for the development of many integrative cancer centers in the U.S., such as the Cancer Treatment Centers of America, The Block Center for Integrative Cancer Treatment and The Riordan Clinic.
At Port Moody Health we understand the importance of providing you or your loved one with the best care possible. We believe that comprehensive cancer care should consist of integrative health care practitioners, each with their individual expertise in the areas of oncology – both conventional and naturopathic. With mounting evidence supporting the benefits of integrative medicine, a new cancer paradigm is emerging: one that recognizes the multitude of benefits complementary care has to offer and that honors the principle that in order to truly heal, the whole person – body, mind and spirit – must be optimally engaged in the healing process. At our center, we strive to provide whole-person and patient-centered care in a collaborative effort with your health care team – including your oncologist and MD.
