Paths to Healing: Evidence-based medicine
By Michael Miller · May 16, 2024
Our newsletter team examines six different approaches to healing
The predominant form of treatment includes primary care as well as a plethora of specialties
Conventional western or evidence-based medicine is also known as allopathic or mainstream medicine. It is sometimes called “allopathy” (“other/different suffering”) by those who prefer alternative health approaches as a way to point out that the conventional approach uses treatments that are opposite of the symptoms. For instance, a bacterial infection is treated with antibiotics. Conventional medicine makes use of surgery, radiology, and pharmaceuticals. The term is also sometimes used to differentiate it from osteopathic medicine.
Number of practitioners
More than 1 million in the U.S. This number can include anesthesiologists, family or primary-care physicians, internists, obstetricians and gynecologists, psychiatrists, and surgeons. There are many specialties as well, such as cardiovascular medicine, dermatology, and orthopedics.
History
The scientific approach to medicine that is understood to be today’s conventional medicine can be traced back to the 17th century.
Approach to healing
“The doctors first try to make a diagnosis and once you have a diagnosis, which hopefully will explain the symptoms, the idea is to treat the condition and relieve the symptoms,” said Dr. Jane Orient of the American Association of Physicians and Surgeons. Although the medical establishment will attempt to treat most any symptom, “It certainly does not have the answer to all things,” Dr. Orient said.
Surgery, pharmaceutical drugs, preventive care, and hygiene are among the practices or tools used by medical physicians.
Conventional medicine is distinct from other forms of health care in that it focuses on using surgical, pharmaceutical, or radiological therapies. Many medical physicians, however, are open to combining their efforts with other forms of healing.
Common ailments treated
Internal and external illness as well as behavioral health.
Certification and licensing
After completing an undergraduate degree in a related field, the candidate then must score satisfactorily on the Medical College Admission Test and then complete medical school. After medical school, a medical doctor completes a residency program, which can last from three to seven years. They also must pass a state medical board exam.
Other paths to healing:
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes and is not meant as medical advice. The information is not meant to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health professional.