Our National Launch
Integrative health leaders have joined forces for the first time to counter the nation’s healthcare crisis. In October 2003, leading health organizations and leaders formed a powerful national alliance to address rising healthcare costs and advance validated, natural, lower cost options to create better health choices for all Americans. In the midst of serious cost-escalation and growing concerns over chronic health conditions, Congress and the nation are searching for solutions. The Campaign for Better Health is a strong, organized voice presenting options.
The Campaign for Better Health grew out of a grassroots movement already millions strong that is dissatisfied with the incomplete model applied to human health. A critical mass now believes that the current model is insufficient and is seeking a more integrative and whole person approach to health—mind, body and spirit.
We have an unprecedented opportunity for the integrative healing movement to advance a new model of health for the 21st century. By working together and uniting around shared values, we can bring the power and spirit of healing to one of the most serious policy challenges facing our nation.
The Campaign is founded on the understanding that:
» Prevention is preferable to treatment. Shifting the culture and its incentives towards wellness as the 21st century model for health should be made a top priority for local and national governments, corporations, religious institutions, research & science, and, most importantly, individuals.
» The human body is more than a sum of its parts. Health approaches treating the body like a machine limit an individual’s ability to heal and fail to address root causes of health problems.
» To improve lives and lower costs, health research needs to be expanded and the art and science of health needs to be expanded. We need to shift from basic science and limited concepts to multi-disciplinary research and practices that incorporate multiple variables including individual differences.
» Environmental wellbeing is linked to our wellbeing. We destroy the nourishment, clean air and clean water that we require to thrive when we pollute our foods, air and rivers.
» Ultimately, it is an informed and active citizenry that will create a healthier America.
Mission
The Campaign for Better Health will accelerate the shift from a treatment-based health system to a new, broader and more profound health and wellness culture that reduces costs, empowers individuals and enhances quality of life.
Purpose
The Campaign for Better Health gives a powerful, national voice to the millions of Americans who utilize and support integrative health and wellness practices. Together, we will create a healthier America by advancing solutions to improve health policy, practice and research and by empowering individuals to recognize their ability and responsibility to heal themselves.
