Exploring the path of Integrative Medicine with Dr Tamara Nation and Dr Poonam Chuni
Integrative medicine is a growing field that blends the strengths of conventional medicine with evidence-based complementary therapies to treat the patient as a whole.
For General Practice Registrars and New Fellows looking to expand their knowledge and skillset, understanding how integrative approaches can complement traditional GP practice is crucial.
To help shed light on this evolving field, GPRA spoke with two renowned integrative medicine experts, Dr Tamara Nation and Dr Poonam Chuni, who shared insights into their careers, the benefits of integrative medicine, and how GPs can incorporate holistic health approaches into their practice.
Dr Poonam Chuni is a Board-Certified Integrative GP and Physician, with a passion for lifestyle and preventative medicine.
She is also the Joint Clinical Director at the National Institute of Integrative Medicine (NIIM).
Her career path began in the UK, where she trained as a GP before delving deeper into integrative and lifestyle medicine.
She later completed her fellowship with the Australian College of Environmental and Nutritional Medicine to further support her interest in holistic healthcare.
For Dr Chuni, the inspiration to pursue a career in medicine was personal. She reflects on how a family member’s health challenges opened her eyes to the limitations of conventional medicine.
“I watched my family member suffer in the traditional medical system, where their personal factors — such as diet, lifestyle, and emotional health — weren’t acknowledged,” Dr Chuni explains.
“It wasn’t until they took control of their health through complementary approaches that I saw a transformative change. That experience really shaped my view on the importance of integrative care.”
For Dr Chuni, integrative medicine is about treating the whole person, considering the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of a patient’s illness.
Unlike conventional medicine, which often focuses solely on symptoms, integrative medicine works to address the root causes of disease, focusing on prevention and long-term health optimisation.
Integrative medicine is especially relevant in managing chronic diseases, a growing issue in healthcare.
“As we see chronic diseases on the rise — particularly among younger populations — it’s crucial to take a holistic approach,” Dr Chuni says.
“Optimising diet, lifestyle, sleep, stress, and even spiritual and social needs can make a significant difference in a patient’s health journey.”
For GPs looking to explore integrative medicine, Dr Chuni recommends starting with specialised training.
“I suggest joining the GP Specialist Interest Group for Integrative Medicine through the RACGP and gaining exposure through shadowing experienced practitioners. The field is open to GPs with a passion for holistic health.”
Dr Chuni’s work at NIIM reflects her commitment to empowering patients and colleagues alike.
“NIIM feels like a family. We not only deliver clinical excellence but also lead in public health education and research. Our inclusive culture allows us to work together to provide the best care.”
Dr Tamara Nation’s path into integrative medicine is one of academic curiosity and dedication to lifelong learning.
After completing her MBBS at the University of Melbourne, Dr Nation spent several years in hospital work and surgical training.
She later took a break from clinical work to complete a PhD and start a family.
Returning to clinical practice, she pursued general practice and, after becoming a Fellow, she explored integrative medicine and medical education as a new Fellow.
Dr Nation’s interest in integrative medicine grew from her desire to offer her patients a more comprehensive approach to health, and was led by the patients she served who were utilising complementary therapies as part of their healthcare.
“Integrative medicine reaffirms the relationship between practitioner and patient, focusing on the whole person rather than just symptoms,” she says.
“It’s about being informed by evidence and incorporating all appropriate therapeutic and lifestyle approaches to achieve optimal health.”
Much like Dr Chuni, Dr Nation sees integrative medicine as a complementary addition to general practice.
“Many of my patients already use complementary medicine as part of their healthcare. Having a strong understanding of this allows me to meet them where they’re at and provide informed, comprehensive care,” she explains.
“Integrative medicine is especially beneficial in managing chronic conditions, where multiple factors contribute to the illness.”
Working at NIIM has allowed Dr Nation to practice integrative care in a collaborative and evidence-based environment.
“It’s been incredibly rewarding to work alongside colleagues who share the same commitment to integrative medicine. The standard of care here reflects my clinical values, and it’s a privilege to be part of a team that empowers patients through holistic care.”
For GPs considering a career in integrative medicine, Dr Nation also suggests starting by joining the RACGP’s Integrative Medicine Specific Interest Group. Dr Nation is the current Chair.
“It’s a great way to connect with like-minded professionals and gain access to resources, newsletters, and educational content,” she advises.
“The most important thing is being a good GP with a commitment to ongoing learning and an open mind.”
Integrating holistic health approaches into General Practice
Both Dr Chuni and Dr Nation emphasise the importance of integrating holistic health practices, such as nutrition, acupuncture, and mindfulness, into GP care.
Dr Chuni explains how she collaborates with patients to explore complementary therapies that align with their health goals.
“We spend an hour with each patient to understand their daily routines and collaborate on a plan that includes small but impactful changes,” she shares.
“Whether it’s adjusting their diet or incorporating mindfulness practices, it’s about finding what works for each patient.”
Dr Nation also incorporates evidence-based complementary treatments, such as nutrition and mind-body therapies, into her practice.
“I provide patients with information on conventional treatments alongside complementary options like nutritional supplements, herbal medicine, and physical therapies,” she says.
“These approaches are all about giving patients the tools to take control of their health in a way that feels right for them.”
A call to action for GPs and GP Registrars
For registrars and new fellows looking to explore the field of integrative medicine, both Dr Chuni and Dr Nation encourage taking the first steps toward learning and connecting.
“Join interest groups, seek mentorship, and engage in continuing education,” Dr Chuni advises.
“Integrative medicine isn’t just about adding new treatments — it’s about changing the way we approach patient care, seeing them as a whole person rather than a collection of symptoms.”
Dr Nation echoes this sentiment, noting that the journey into integrative medicine can be both fulfilling and transformative.
“By embracing integrative practices, GPs can provide more comprehensive care, empower patients, and foster deeper, more meaningful relationships. It’s about lifelong learning and adapting our care models to meet the needs of our patients.”
Dr Tamara Nation and Dr Poonam Chuni’s experiences demonstrate how integrative medicine can complement general practice and make a lasting impact on patient care.
