Paige O’Connor
Research Mentor(s): Dr. Nikhil Parekh
Mentor Department: VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System
Authors:
Session: Session 7 (4:00pm – 4: 50pm)
Presentation Type: Poster 55
Abstract
Whole Health is a system of care based on Integrative Medicine. It was originally developed to support the well-being of veterans within the Veteran Affairs Health Care System (VA). Whole Health focuses on numerous areas of care, such as acupuncture, massage therapy, physical movement, nutrition, and SMART goal medical and health coaching. This project aims to share Whole Health with a broader range of populations, including students, healthcare staff, and underserved communities. The researchers hope to study the effects that Whole Health and Integrative Medicine can have on enhancing wellness and preventing burnout in these groups. This project involves multiple stages, beginning with students learning about the Whole Health system of care through handouts and textbooks, followed by a review of current literature on research related to Whole Health and Integrative Medicine across various populations. The project also includes the development of a survey to address awareness of Whole Health and Integrative Medicine knowledge and practices among the targeted groups. The data collected from the survey will be analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative statistical methods to evaluate the overall impact on wellness. This research is expected to highlight the importance of Integrative Medicine in promoting Whole Health for students and healthcare staff, offering new insights into programs that can be applied to institutions like the University of Michigan and the VA to enhance mental and physical health support and prevent burnout.
