My guiding treatment philosophy is based on the the Latin phrase "Primum non nocere" which means "First do no harm".  Actually not part of the Hippocratic oath but a long known principal of medicine.

 

In order to fulfill this idea, the patients primary problem must be clearly defined.  Then, the available treatment options should be explored with an eye to safety, effectiveness and cost.  I believe all reasonably effective and safe treatment options should be explored.  This would include conventional as well as complementary and alternative methods.  In fact, I often recommend patients have a complete diagnostic evaluation if they have not yet had this done.  Standard health maintenance examinations ( cancer screening, blood pressure and diabetes checks, etc.) are also recommended.

 

I believe most medical problems can at least be assisted ( or "complemented") by selected alternative medicine methods.  I also believe that many medical problems may be exclusively and safely treated with alternative medicine methods.

 

The decision as to which route to take depends on the nature of the presenting problem (what the chief diagnosis is), its level of severity, its potential for serious health consequences and the relative effectiveness and safety of the treatment method, whether it be  standard or alternative in nature.