Two Decades of Revolutionary Healthcare: A Voyage from Conventional to Holistic Care

Two decades prior, as I initiated my career in healthcare, my focus was distinctly rooted in my research experience in cancer biology and biophysics. My trajectory was anchored in conventional models; holistic medicine was not within my field of vision. Yet, my experience as a doctor took an unforeseen turn, prompting me to adopt a comprehensive approach that integrates functional medicine into my practice as a general internist.

The pivotal moment occurred during my residency in internal medicine—a transformative phase characterized by both professional hurdles and personal achievements. While pregnant throughout my three-year training, I managed the rigorous terrain of 30-plus-hour shifts on inpatient rotations while nurturing new life. The pressures of residency coupled with the physical demands of pregnancy tested my limits, often leaving me fatigued and overwhelmed. Confronted with the possibility of induction or C-section for my sizable first child, I reached a decisive point.

The epiphany struck during an insomnia-laden night of investigating how long working hours affect pregnancy outcomes. Findings from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists underscored the dangers of miscarriage, gestational issues, and preterm birth linked to overexertion. A shift was essential; it was time to adopt a proactive approach to health.

I extended beyond typical limits, enrolling in prenatal yoga, hiring a doula, and delving into acupuncture and chiropractic treatments. These holistic practices unveiled fresh viewpoints—practitioners who motivated and championed my wellness. This comprehensive approach culminated in a natural childbirth experience, devoid of interventions, where I observed the body’s inherent ability to heal and function.

This experience redefined my medical worldview. Integrative medicine amalgamated the evidence-based principles of internal medicine with complementary approaches, emphasizing patient empowerment. My dedication lies in fusing science with compassion, customizing care that honors individual healing pathways. This practice represents the intersection of science and artistry, a conscientious collaboration in healing.

Bojana Jankovic Weatherly, MD, FACP, MSc, IFMCP, is a physician specializing in internal and integrative medicine.