The Strength of Connection: Acupuncture in Integrative Medicine (IM)

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The healthcare system in the Netherlands is evolving. There is a growing call to adopt a broader perspective on health, not only treating illness but also strengthening wellness. In this context, pediatrician and lifestyle physician Ines von Rosenstiel advocates for the structural integration of Integrative Medicine (IM) into mainstream healthcare practice¹. This call closely aligns with the vision of the Dutch Acupuncture Association.

What is Integrative Medicine?
Integrative Medicine combines conventional medical care with scientifically supported complementary treatment modalities. Think of interventions focused on nutrition, exercise, 'mind-body' techniques, and acupuncture. The approach is person-centered and contributes to a broader view of health, where both symptom-focused treatment and enhancement of well-being are included.

Integrative Medicine on the rise in Hospitals
In the Netherlands, there are now hospitals that work with integrative care, such as Rijnstate Arnhem, Isala Zwolle, and the Máxima Medical Center. However, the structural integration of Integrative Medicine in healthcare remains limited, partly due to challenges in financing, education, and scientific research within the Dutch context.

Von Rosenstiel therefore advocates for collaboration among healthcare providers, institutions, patient organizations, and policymakers, so that integrative care can be more widely embraced and implemented.

Slogan: Acupuncture – Effective on Many Points
Acupuncture is increasingly used in Integrated Medicine for complaints such as pain, tension, and chronic fatigue. There is a growing interest in this treatment method in mainstream healthcare, provided it is administered by well-trained therapists and in conjunction with conventional treatments.

Although there is international research available, there is still room in the Netherlands for further substantiation of effectiveness in practice. Recent international research (2024)², for example, shows that forms of integrated care, including acupuncture, are increasingly being used in oncology worldwide. The study emphasizes the importance of collaboration between conventional and complementary healthcare providers and calls for more research and integration in practice.

The NVA welcomes initiatives that responsibly integrate acupuncture into broader healthcare trajectories.

The NVA embraces the future of Integrative Healthcare
The Dutch Association for Acupuncture supports the call for integrative healthcare. Acupuncture can make a valuable contribution when applied expertly, transparently, and in combination with other treatment methods.
The time is ripe for increased collaboration, including with acupuncturists.

1: Source: Doq, doctor's perspective

2: Reference: Van Wietmarschen, H.A. Kapteijns, A., Busch, M., et al. Setting a Dutch integrative medicine research agenda: Results of a consensus-based strategy - ScienceDirect