Our healthcare system is in flux. As we live longer and embrace changes in lifestyle and environment, we are also being overwhelmed by an increase in chronic disease diagnoses, and the expensive treatments that come with them. To keep up with these changes the fundamental approach of our healthcare system is beginning to move toward […]

You know your body better than anyone. Whether managing a medical diagnosis or seeking to improve (or maintain) your current health, your role as the patient should carry at least equal weight to that of your doctor’s. Especially considering the large gaps that can exist between doctor’s visits, it is ultimately your responsibility to monitor […]

Your primary care physician is charged with monitoring your overall health. A conventional physician will encourage annual screenings, vaccinations and prescribe medications when needed. In addition to the standard care, an integrative doctor will examine your health from multiple angles—including your physical health, environment, and emotional well-being—and will help you learn about self-care and alternative […]

Self-care is often overlooked in discussions around healing, but it is a critical aspect of our health and well-being.  The best path to health is for physicians to work with patients so they can take control of their health.  This is most impactful when patients take an active part in their self-care to achieve and […]

As a primary care provider in San Francisco’s Mission District for 32 years, Dr. Bodenheimer took care of low-income, mostly Latina patients. He did his best to make their lives better. But as the years passed, Dr. Bodenheimer realized that he hadn’t been doing a very good job helping his patients, especially those with chronic […]

Don’t be fooled by fad diets! Finding the best nutrition plan for you starts with nutritional counseling. Extreme dietary changes can harm you—both physically and psychologically. Cyclical weight loss and regain is bad for health and makes permanent weight loss more difficult. That’s why it must be left up to the professionals to know the […]

Valentine’s Day has always been celebrated as the “most romantic day of the year”, but for caregivers that invest more time in others than they do themselves, it’s not only about sending flowers, chocolates, and a card to your significant other. During my recent visit to a pain clinic, I met with a group of women […]

As a caregiver, you have a unique set of needs and great strengths that help you navigate your journey. Caregivers face a constantly evolving role that changes with the health and needs of your loved one. You may deal with false and/or real expectations and feel a roller coaster of emotions associated with them. Being […]

Americans define health in broad terms; wish doctors would talk to them about more than just physical health Many Americans experience a disconnect between how they personally define health and how they talk about their health with their doctors. Nearly half (45%) of U.S. adults who have a primary care physician (PCP) say they wish […]