Considers multiple aspects of the person and their context.

Integrates these aspects such that the whole is seen as greater than the sum of the parts.

Values the therapeutic relationship.

Places importance on personal attributes of the doctor that foster the therapeutic relationship.

Employs a collaborative approach that emphasises patient responsibility.

Values continuity of care.

Places importance on doctors’ self-awareness.

Adopts a ‘physician heal thyself’ philosophy.

Identifies potential for personal growth of the doctor through treating the patient.

Views patients as individual, unique persons.

Focuses on the person rather than on the disease.

Distinguishes between disease (a pathological derangement) and illness (a broader term encompassing the effect of disease on the patient’s life).

Health is viewed as more than the absence of disease.

Disease is viewed as a state of imbalance and healing as restoring the balance of health.

Emphasises preventive health measures.

Use of a range of treatment modalities.

May include (but is not synonymous with) CAM.