Elkins, W.Va. – According to the American Board of Integrative Medicine (ABOIM), integrative medicine “reaffirms the importance of the relationship between practitioner and patient, focuses on the whole person, is informed by evidence, and makes use of all appropriate therapeutic approaches, healthcare professionals, and disciplines to achieve optimal health and healing.”

In June, Dr. Catherine “Mindy” Chua, DO, earned Board Certification through the American Board of Physician Specialties (ABPS) by successfully completing all certification requirements by the ABOIM.

“Integrative medicine compliments my family medicine practice,” said Dr. Chua.  “If a patient comes to me with a problem, I investigate the cause of the problem and then explore options for treatment in a holistic and cooperative manner.”

Dr. Chua said too often health problems are treated with medication, when a lifestyle or behavioral change is more effective.

“For example, if someone is having stomach problems I’ll talk to them about their eating habits, diet or emotional health before prescribing a pill to reduce discomfort,” explained Chua.

Dr. Chua will continue to maintain her busy family medicine practice at Davis Medical Center, but said she is excited to connect with patients at a deeper level through integrative medicine.

“It’s important for the physician and the patient to partner in individual health goals.”

The American Board of Physician Specialties (ABFS) is the third largest nationally recognized multi-specialty certifying organization in the United States and certifies physicians in a myriad of specialties and types of practices.  Dr. Chua joined Davis Medical Center in 2013, and in 2018 was named Chief Medical Officer for the system.  She is board certified by the American Academy of Family Practice, and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Medicine.