Practice philosophy
Photo by Devin Atsatt
Functional medicine. Integrative medicine. Lifestyle medicine. Holistic medicine. Natural medicine.
At the core, each of these approaches prioritizes a person’s own healing powers through the lens of mind-body connection. Each has a slightly difference emphasis, but there are no universally agreed-upon definitions. Rather than make a case that one means X and another means Y, I’d like to simply explain my approach, and encourage you to ask me more about it if you are interested.
My medical practice is firmly evidence-based. That evidence includes scientific research, practical clinical experience, and the unique circumstances of each individual.
It is also highly collaborative. We work together to formulate and implement a customized plan to achieve not just absence of symptoms and disease, but personal flourishing.
Beth Haynes, MD
MEDICAL SCHOOL | University of Cincinnati, M.D. degree
RESIDENCY | St. Mary’s Hospital/ University of Wisconsin, Family Medicine
INITIAL BOARD CERTIFICATION | American Board of Family Medicine
Licensed by the California Medical Board. Complaints or concerns may be submitted here.
The basic tenets of my practice
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1.In creating health and illness, the mind and body are inseparably connected.
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2.Health and illness are multifactorial with major contributions from our genes, environmental exposures, nutrition, exercise and movement, and stress.
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3.Symptom patterns arise from systemic dynamics. Therapeutic interventions will have systemic effects. Therefore, the most effective path to health and well-being is comprehensive and whole-person oriented (rather than specific organ or disease focused.)
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4.Medicine is both a science and art. Research (the science) tells us a lot about the human mind-body in general, but this information must be personalized and adapted to each unique individual (the art.)
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5.An effective plan for health and wellness is informed by scientific evidence and clinical experience (which frequently precedes research-based evidence) and, just as importantly, one’s personal goals and values.
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6.Much of chronic disease results from the body’s attempt to adapt to excessive unhealthy exposures and stresses. When provided with the proper inputs, our bodies have an amazing capacity for wellness. By supporting this capacity, the need for drugs and surgeries can be minimized.
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7.Conventional modern medicine excels at rescuing us from the negative consequences of acute and sustained unhealthy inputs. When applied appropriately, it is lifesaving and provides much-needed relief from suffering. But, too often it focuses on symptom management rather than addressing the unhealthy inputs and root dysfunctions which underlie the manifestation of dis-ease.
Achieving health and well-being is a journey. Along the way there are times when we can benefit from expertise, advice, and support. If you are at such a juncture, I’d be honored to walk beside you for a while.