Exploring Complementary and Integrative Health: Information, Resources, and Evaluation

As healthcare trends evolve, there is a growing interest in using Complementary and Integrative Health (CIH) alongside traditional medical practices. Some individuals opt for alternative medicine instead of conventional treatments; some integrate Eastern practices with their Western medicine, raising questions and concerns about the quality and reliability of available information. In response to this need, our class aims to empower participants with the knowledge and resources to navigate the world of CIH.

Through this class, we will explore the definitions of Complementary and Integrative Health, encompassing both Eastern and Western medicine perspectives. We will delve into various approaches to CIH, discussing their associated risks and benefits. Furthermore, we will equip you with strategies to help your users discern trustworthy CIH information and avoid fraudulent claims.

Our comprehensive approach covers health information resources and strategies to enhance health information access and use and aligns with NNLM initiatives addressing health misinformation and environmental determinants of health. Join us to enhance your ability to guide patients, patrons, and others in understanding the dynamics of CIH and its place in modern healthcare.

This asynchronous class takes place over 3 weeks in Moodle. There are no set hours to be online each week. It should take you about 2 hours each week.

Resource URL: https://www.nnlm.gov/training/class-catalog/exploring-complementary-and-integrative-health-information-resources-and 

Registration: https://www.nnlm.gov/training/class/exploring-complementary-and-integrative-health-information-resources-and-evaluation

Learning Objectives

• Define complementary and Integrative Health, eastern and western medicine.  
• Recall different approaches to complementary and Integrative Health
• List some of the risks and benefits of complementary and Integrative Health approaches
• Apply strategies for avoiding scams and fraudulent claims related to CIH products and services
• Locate information on complementary and Integrative Health using resources such as NCCIH, PubMed and MedlinePlus

Agenda

This is a 3-week scheduled Moodle class. Learners will be able to work at their own pace.

• 1. Introduction
• 2. Exploration of specific CIH practices
• 3. Nutritional Approaches
  • 3.1. Vitamins and minerals
  • 3.2. Herbs and Botanicals
  • 3.3. Probiotics
• 4. Psychological approaches
  • 4.1. Mindfulness and Meditation
• 5. Physical Approaches
  • 5.1. Massage therapy
  • 5.2. Spinal Manipulation
• 6. Psychological and physical combined approaches
  • 6.1. Yoga
  • 6.2. Qigong and Tai Chi
  • 6.3. Acupuncture
• 7. Additional Practices
  • 7.1. Essential Oils
  • 7.2. Aromatherapy
  • 7.3. Knowledge check

MLA CE Credits: 6