Frequently Asked Questions
What is complementary medicine?
- The practice of medicine that reaffirms the importance of the relationship between practitioner and patient.
- Focuses on the whole person.
- Is informed by evidence.
- Makes use of all appropriate therapeutic approaches to achieve optimal health and healing.
- Consortium of Academic Health Centers for Integrative Medicine.
When is complementary care useful?
Complementary therapies can help a patient at any stage of illness. It can be especially helpful for patients experiencing:
- Post operative pain
- Chronic pain
- Anxiety
- Stress
- Sleeplessness
- Nausea
- End of life
- Comfort cares
Who provides the therapies?
Our staff therapists have completed the highest level of certification in their field. We also have partnerships with area schools, including: Augsburg College, Northwestern Health Sciences University and Saint Catherine University. All students are supervised by staff therapists. Our volunteer program requires an appropriate amount of education and experience in order to provide therapies to patients at Regions.
Must other treatments be stopped?
No. These therapies and services help support the healing process and do not replace any medical treatments a patient would receive as a part of their regular care at Regions.
How can a patient get services?
Doctors, nurses, social workers, case managers, and chaplains may choose to include complementary therapies and services as a part of a patient's plan of care. Complementary Care Therapies only serve patients on select units at this time.
Is there a charge?
Complementary care therapies and services are provided to patients at no additional charge. They are included as a part of the patient experience at Regions.
