ACHS Welcomes New Graduates to National Chapter of DET Honor Society

American College of Healthcare Sciences (ACHS) announces four new members to its national chapter of the Delta Epsilon Tau (DET) Honor Society.

Kudos and Congratulations go to:

•    Priscilla Andrews, Master Aromatherapist & Certified Iridology Consultant, Floyd, NM
•    Wendy Gattinella, Certified Aromatherapist, Kingston, NH
•    Shannon Nerren, Certified Wellness Coach, Nacogdoches, TX
•    Charlene Caswell, Certified Wellness Coach & Holistic Nutrition Consultant, Sedona, AZ
All accepted as of the close of the first quarter of 2012.

“We are thrilled to congratulate and highlight the achievements of these alumni,” says ACHS President Dorene Petersen. “Our DET Honor Society alumni are an inspiration to all ACHS students who are striving for the highest academic achievement, as well as forging successful new career paths in the growing holistic health industry.”

To qualify for membership, ACHS graduates must attain an academic average of at least 96 percent, which demonstrates a core body of knowledge in and dedication to the field of Complementary Alternative Medicine, as well as a commitment to the safety of clients and customers.

The ACHS chapter of the DET Honor Society, sponsored by the Distance Education and Training Council, was established to recognize the academic achievements of students who study at a distance and to bring honor and earned recognition to individuals who have worked diligently to acquire new knowledge and skills from an accredited distance learning institution.

What inspires you to achieve academic success?

ACHS Hires Jared Schaalje Instructional Technologist

American College is excited to welcome Jared to our team as an Instructional Technologist. Jared will work directly with CIO Erika Yigzaw to create powerful education experiences for online students worldwide. 

"I am so excited to be a part of ACHS, where there is a constant flow of ideas, innovation, and creativity within our team! I love the fields of herbal medicine and instructional design, and ACHS provides the ideal environment for me to meaningfully contribute to both of these areas." 

Jared graduated from Capella University in 2007 with a Master’s degree in Instructional Design for Online Learning. He earned a Master’s degree in Instructional Technology from Utah State University in addition to his Bachelor’s in Psychology from Brigham Young University.  He has several years’ experience as a hospital and healthcare instructional designer, building web-based training courses.

Jared can be reached at (503) 244-0726 ext 30 or jaredschaalje@achs.edu.

What Can I Legally Do As An Herbalist, Aromatherapist, Or Other Holistic Health Practitioner?

Most holistic health modalities are currently unlicensed. However, legislation is currently in place in multiple states, including Minnesota and California, and it is important to be aware of and compliant with relevant legislation.

The National Health Freedom Coalition offers a state listing that is useful. We recommend that you become aware of the organizations in your state and consider joining their efforts to support Health Freedom. Just a reminder, though: completing any training program, including courses at American College of Healthcare Sciences, does not constitute any type of licensure to practice.

It's always important to keep in mind what the unlicensed complementary and alternative healthcare provider is ethically and legally able to do[1]. First, it is important to remember that a holistic health practitioner is not a primary care physician. Without other licensing, a holistic health practitioner cannot diagnose, treat, or prescribe drugs[2].

The Holistic Health Practitioner:

• Recognizes that achieving good health requires a proper diet, fresh clean water, fresh air, sunlight, exercise, and rest.
• Teaches his or her clients how to achieve and sustain good health on a daily basis with herbs, essential oils, homeopathics, and other natural modalities to supplement their healthy lifestyle.
• Understands that each client has a physical, mental, and spiritual self, and that good health requires balance in all areas.
• Recognizes when allopathic healthcare may be necessary, and is always ready to refer a client to his or her primary care physician for diagnosis and/or treatment.
• Empowers the client to achieve improved health, both today and for the future, through addressing any imbalances caused by improper nutrition, poor quality sleep, insufficient water, lack of exercise, fresh air, and relaxation.
• Educates clients to evaluate their lifestyle choices, to isolate and change any potential causes of ill health.

The Holistic Health Practitioner Does Not:

• Diagnose disease. A holistic health practitioner performs evaluations to determine causes of potential health problems, but they do not diagnose disease. Always refer a client back to his or her licensed physician for a diagnosis.
• Treat disease. A holistic health practitioner focuses on health and education, not on disease, and empowers clients to take charge of their own good health.    
• Prescribe drugs or pharmaceuticals. Holistic health practitioners teach clients about herbs, essential oils, homeopathic remedies, homeobotanical remedies, flower essences, dietary supplements, and nutrition.
• Perform Invasive Procedures. Depending on his or her training and licensing, a practitioner may use hands on techniques as part of his or her practice. For example, a practitioner may also be trained as a massage therapist, chiropractor, or osteopath, and use natural health modalities along with that discipline; For example, a massage therapist may use an essential oil blend to complement a massage treatment. Existing healthcare professionals should check with their licensing bodies regarding incorporating their studies into their existing practice. Holistic health practitioners do not perform any invasive procedures, give injections, or draw blood.

>> For additional information, click here to read more complementary alternative medicine articles from the American College FAQ Knowledgebase.

References:
[1] Note that this is general information and is not intended to be legal advice, and you should seek legal advice in your state for detailed information.
[2] If you do hold licensing in a health care field, you may have a different scope of practice than practitioners without other licensure.

Meet Elizabeth Edleman, Administrative Assistant, the Newest Member of Our ACHS Team

Meet Elizabeth Edleman, the newest member of our team at the American College of Healthcare Sciences (ACHS). Elizabeth has been hired as Administrative Assistant. Welcome to the College, Elizabeth!

“I’m honored for the opportunity to work in a school like the American College of Healthcare Sciences," Elizabeth says. "Having been a distance-learning student myself, I look forward to assisting others in the same position. Since I started working at ACHS, I have been learning something new every day, and am eager to take on the new and exciting challenges this position will bring!”

Elizabeth graduated from Emporia State University in 2011 with a Master of Library Science. In 2007 she earned a B.A. Psychology from Western Washington University and has several years’ experience in reception and administration. Elizabeth volunteered with the Seattle Public Library in two different capacities, both greeting library visitors as a Welcome Desk Volunteer and repairing damaged library materials as a Mending Volunteer. She has also served as a digital reference volunteer with Oregon Library Network’s L-net, answering patrons’ questions in an online environment.

She will work directly with ACHS administration to uphold ACHS's commitment to providing leadership in holistic health education through comprehensive professional online and on-campus education and high-quality natural products with a commitment to sustainable practices and principles. Elizabeth can be reached at (503) 244-0726 ext 33 or elizabethedleman@achs.edu.

About ACHS
American College of Healthcare Sciences was one of the first accredited colleges offering degrees, diplomas, and career-training certificates in complementary alternative medicine fully online. Founded in 1978, ACHS is committed to exceptional online education and is recognized as an industry leader in holistic health education worldwide. For more information about ACHS programs and community wellness events, visit www.achs.edu, call (503) 244-0726, or stop by the College campus located at 5940 SW Hood Ave., Portland OR 97239.

ACHS Master of Science Graduate Student Reports on AIA Conference "The Future of Aromatics in Integrative Healthcare”

By Sandy Durand, ACHS Master of Science in Complementary Alternative Medicine

Attending the recent conference for the Alliance of International Aromatherapists (AIA) truly was a highlight of my year. What a fantastic and thoroughly enjoyable learning opportunity!

As an American College of Healthcare Sciences graduate student, a Registered Aromatherapist (RA) focusing on natural skin care and wellness, and a mom of special needs youths who use aromatherapy daily, this conference helped me on all fronts.

The 2011 conference featured informational sessions ranging from using aromatherapy to treat depression in postpartum mothers to applications in cancer care to understanding aromatherapy chemistry. Held in Minnesota’s Twin Cities area, the three-day main conference, “The Future of Aromatics in Integrative Healthcare,” was sandwiched between optional pre- and post-conference seminars.

Rhiannon Harris, a clinical aromatherapist, nurse, and educator from France, hosted the full-day pre-conference workshop on skin integrity. I couldn’t miss attending this option and enjoyed every minute of it. Ms. Harris packed an incredible amount of information into a day that just flew by. She shared a wealth of professional experience in how to address specific skin care challenges and kindly took time to answer audience questions. I think the consensus in the room was that we all would have loved another day or two to listen to Ms. Harris and absorb even more of her expertise; I heard many comments to that effect.

Other topics offered during the main conference included how to establish an aromatherapy business, current trends in spas, kinesiology, research strategies, oils of Australia, and daily morning aromatic Kundalini yoga sessions. AIA management and volunteers did an excellent job of selecting presenters and keeping everything running smoothly. They and the speakers also incorporated a lot of sparkle and humor into their presentations to keep us laughing while we learned.

The only downside is that I skipped school to attend the conference and still have not caught up in my anatomy class. Sorry, Dr. Berger. I’m trying.

>>To read the full-text article on the ACHS website, click here


Have questions for Sandy? Feel free to post them here! We'd also love to hear your thoughts on the conference topic ... What is the future of aromatics in integrative healthcare?

CAM Use In Hospitals Tripled Since 2000 - Ask for the services you want!

Great news ... the October 4 article "Demand drives more hospitals to offer alternative therapies" from American Medical News reports that CAM (complementary alternative medicine) use in hospitals has tripled since 2000. As a result of patient demand, 42% of the 714 hospitals surveyed now offer some form of CAM therapy- including massage, meditation, and Reiki.

What about aromatherapy, (say, some lavender essential oil), shown to be effective with anxiety?[1] Hospital execs say they are making the change because the CAM therapies are "clinically effective" and to ensure patient satisfaction - so, be sure to ask your hospital for some aromatherapy while you wait for your procedure!

> Click here to read the full-text article on the American Medical News website

Have you asked your local hospital or primary care physician to offer more CAM alternatives? This is a fantastic opportunity to effect change in your community! Which CAM therapy would you most like to see your local hospital offer?

[1] Natural Standard. (2011 May). Aromatherapy for Anxiety. [Online exclusive]. Retrieved from http://naturalstandard.com/news/news201105016.asp

Cinnamon for Diabetes: New Survey Shows CAM Used with Diabetes Mellitus

Incidence of diabetes is on the rise. Though at this time there is no known cure, the World Health Organization recommends several lifestyle modifications that may help prevent onset of Type II Diabetes, including healthy diet, regular exercise, maintaining normal body weight, and avoiding tobacco use.

For those managing Type I and Type II Diabetes, a 2011 survey by the Diabetes Center of the Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism shows patients with Diabetes Mellitus are using Complementary Alternative Medicine (CAM) as a support with conventional health care.

Of the almost 200 diabetes patients surveyed, 34% of Type I Diabetics and 31% of Type II Diabetics reported using CAM supplements. In addition, 56% of Type I Diabetics and 76% of Type II Diabetics who reported using biologically based supplements said they used them daily with conventional health care and prescribed therapies. Nutritional supplements, herbal medicines, and cinnamon were the most frequently reported CAM supplements used.

If you love cinnamon as many of us do, you'd be interested to know the common culinary spice is currently being researched as a useful supplement with Type II Diabetes. It is thought that cinnamon may lower blood sugar by decreasing insulin resistance; in those with Type II Diabetes, insulin, the hormone which lowers blood sugar, does not work efficiently which causes higher blood sugar levels. Further studies are needed, however, to determine the long-term effects of cinnamon on diabetes.

>>Read the full-text review of "Use of complementary and alternative medicine supplements in patients with diabetes mellitus" by the American Botanical Council online here

>> If you'd like to learn more about holistic nutrition to support optimal health and wellness, visit ACHSedu and click on Holistic Medicine, community wellness events, and News and Events for more information

*This information has not been reviewed by the FDA and is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent disease. Before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine, consult with your primary care physician or naturopathic doctor.

Meet Jean Wilson, ACHS's New Admissions Advisor

Meet Jean Wilson, American College of Healthcare Sciences' (ACHS) new Admissions Advisor. Welcome to the ACHS family, Jean!

Jean, a Portland native, has an Associate Degree in Human Services Management and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. As a previous online student, Jean has in-depth knowledge of, and experience with online learning environments.

“As a recent distance learner I come to ACHS well-versed in the processes of distance learning and how to maximize the online learning experience,” Jean says. “This experience will prove helpful with assisting students to become acclimated in a distance learning environment. I look forward to providing exceptional service while assisting students to achieve their academic goals.”

“In addition, I believe in total wellness: mind, body, and spirit,” Jean says. “To have the opportunity to work for ACHS, a college that promotes and educates within the field of holistic health, is a reward itself. I am excited about the opportunity to learn more about holistic health and contribute to community awareness.”

Jean will work with Acting Director of Operations Tracey Miller to help current and prospective ACHS students determine the best online holistic health program for their personal and professional goals. Jean can be reached at (503) 244-0726 or jeanwilson@achs.edu.

About ACHS
American College of Healthcare Sciences is one of the first accredited, fully online college offering degrees, diplomas, and career-training certificates in complementary alternative medicine. Founded in 1978, ACHS is committed to exceptional online education and is recognized as an industry leader in holistic health education worldwide. For more information about ACHS programs and community wellness events, visit www.achs.edu, call (503) 244-0726, or stop by the College campus located at 5940 SW Hood Ave., Portland OR 97239.

How to Use a Stress Journal and 5 Tips for Stress Management

We all know that stress can be a negative influence. But sometimes it can feel like there is nothing we can do about our stress level. Not true! There will always be more to do, more decisions to make, and more situations to mediate, but---how we manage our stress is something we can control.

The trick is to be proactive. To be proactive we have to take charge of what we can control (our environment, our attitude, our thoughts, our choices) and stop worrying about what is out of our control. In other words, balance. The long-term goal is to create balance in our life (balance between work, home, and relaxation) so that when stressful situations arise, we are better equipped to mediate and neutralize them.

To create balance, we must first know what causes us stress. Simple, we know. Yet, many people know what it feels like when they are already stressed out but cannot identify how they got stressed out, the actual trigger. One tool you can use to identify what causes you to stress out and why is a stress journal.

Like a food journal, a stress journal helps you to look at your habits and your choices. It does not need to be fancy. A simple notebook will work. Every time you feel stressed, write it down in your journal. Include the date, what you feel caused the stress, how you felt, how you responded, and whether or not you felt better.

Then at the end of every week or month (whatever time period you set for yourself), review your journal. Over time patterns will emerge: patterns in your stress triggers and in your response. If how you are dealing with stress no longer works for you, it is time to try some healthier strategies. Document these in your stress journal, too, and take note of when you start to feel better.

Here are 5 tips for stress management:

1. Simplify your to-do list.
2. Express your feelings as they arise.
3. Adjust your expectations and focus on the positive.
4. Let go of what you cannot control.
5. Relax—take an aromatherapy bath, enjoy a fresh mug of herbal tea, go for a walk, laugh.

For more health and wellness tips, download the ACHS Wellness Guide HERE.

For current studies on the use of complementary alternative medicine (such as herbs) with stress, visit the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine website HERE.

ACHS Graduates Its First Masters in CAM Student: Congratulations Roma!

Congratulations Roma-Dakini Alexander, our first Masters of Science in Complementary Alternative Medicine (CAM) graduate!

“I always had a passion for herbal medicine,” Roma says. “I come from Europe and my grandmother was a Shamanic medicine woman. I was very happy to find a college that offers an MS in CAM and is also accredited by [a body approved by] the U.S. Department of Education and Council for Higher Education Accreditation.”

Roma is a licensed radiation therapist and is Radiation Therapy Program Director for the Kaiser Permanente School of Allied Health Sciences in Richmond, California. She plans to use her ACHS CAM education to organize seminars and meetings, such as the interaction of drugs with herbs and supplements, and to share her knowledge with other medical professionals.

Post a comment for Roma! Share this news with your friends and family via Twitter. Post the link to your Facebook. Help us get the word out about Roma's accomplishment. And ... thanks!

Read more about Roma and the ACHS Masters of Science in CAM HERE!

ACHS launches new course Topics in Holistic Nutrition, a critical review of non-traditional nutrition topics

Portland, Oregon—July 1, 2010— American College of Healthcare Sciences (ACHS) is proud to announce the launch of Topics in Holistic Nutrition (NUT 309) September, 20, 2010. The newest addition to ACHS’s innovative holistic nutrition curriculum, Topics in Holistic Nutrition is a critical review of popular media topics and current research into nutrition, food, and health.

Topics in Holistic Nutrition is a core course for ACHS’s Certificate in Holistic Nutrition Consulting program and an elective option for several of the College’s complementary alternative medicine (CAM) programs, including the Holistic Health Practitioner and the Associate of Applied Science in Complementary Alternative Medicine programs.

“This course is truly exceptional,” says ACHS Senior Vice President Erika Yigzaw, “because it engages students with the most current issues and discussions about nutrition. Through the popular texts of contemporary writers Michael Pollan, Elson Haas, Christopher Vasey, and Kimberly Lord Stewart students will examine the affect of our supermarket-food system, food labeling, and CAM protocols on personal and social health not to just ‘learn the rules’ of good nutrition, but to really engage with the larger discussion about where our ideas of ‘good nutrition’ come from and what they mean. Michael Pollan says ‘Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants’ in his article “Unhappy Meals.” But what does ‘food’ mean? Students will explore this question, among many others, to better understand how nutrition is affected by our attitudes about food, health, and science.”

“Michael Pollan has become an icon of the anti-industrial food movement,” adds Dr. Arianna Staruch, ACHS Academic Dean. “In brief, this course is a critical review of topics not usually found in traditional nutrition courses.”

For more information about Topics in Holistic Nutrition and ACHS courses, visit www.achs.edu for detailed descriptions. You also can contact the ACHS Admissions team by phone at (800) 487-8839 during the hours of 8:30 am-5:30 pm, PST, or email admissions@achs.edu.

About ACHS
American College of Healthcare Sciences is one of the first accredited, fully online college offering degrees, diplomas, and career-training certificates in complementary alternative medicine. Founded in 1978, ACHS is committed to exceptional online education and is recognized as an industry leader in holistic health education worldwide. For more information about ACHS programs and community wellness events, visit www.achs.edu, call (503) 244-0726, or stop by the College campus located at 5940 SW Hood Ave., Portland OR 97239.

ACHS Partners with Wonderlic, Inc.

ACHS Partners with Wonderlic, Inc. to Ensure Hiring of Most Qualified Faculty and Staff

American College of Healthcare Sciences (ACHS) has teamed with Wonderlic, Inc. to streamline their hiring process for Admissions and Adjunct Faculty positions, thus ensuring all new hires will meet the needs of ACHS and their students.

ACHS is the one of the first accredited online colleges to offer degrees, diplomas, and career-training certificates in Complementary Alternative Medicine (CAM). They are committed to providing current and prospective students with the best online CAM education and experience available, including highly trained admissions advisors and faculty who are both industry experts and engaging online instructors.

ACHS chose to work with Wonderlic because of their ability to customize testing metrics for specific positions. Applicants interested in available jobs in ACHS Admissions or as Adjunct Faculty will now complete Wonderlic’s pre-employment testing, which consists of several assessments that provide an objective measurement of applicants’ knowledge, skills, and ability to meet specific job requirements. The results will allow ACHS President Dorene Petersen, Senior Vice President Erika Yigzaw, Dean of Admissions Tracey Miller, and Academic Dean Dr. Arianna Staruch to compare applicant experience and skills, leading to the selection of only the most qualified candidates.

“By hiring staff and faculty who possess the ability to perform well and have the personality to be successful in an online institution, we ensure that we are maximizing our students’ valuable tuition dollars,” says ACHS Dean of Admissions Tracey Miller.

Click here to read the full-length press release on the ACHS website.

98% of ACHS Students Said They Would Recommend ACHS to a Friend

After several key developments in 2009, the American College of Healthcare Sciences sees the positive results in student satisfaction

American College of Healthcare Sciences (ACHS), one of the first accredited, online colleges to offer degrees, diplomas, and career-training certificates in complementary alternative medicine (CAM), also known as integrative medicine, celebrated its 20th year of operations in the U.S. in 2009. Building on its foundation of core CAM courses and programs, in 2009 ACHS also launched seven new certificate programs and six graduate certificates for specialized training in CAM in response to growing demand for CAM-trained healthcare professionals.

The January 2010 survey showed exceptional results from ACHS’s 2009 developments and a completion rate of 93% for the top 10 ACHS courses by enrollment. Of the more than 500 survey respondents, 95% said yes when asked, “Did you achieve, or will you have achieved upon completing your studies, the goals you had when you started the course or program?” When asked, “Would you recommend these studies to a friend?”, 98% said yes, and 98% also said yes when asked, “All things considered, are you satisfied with your studies with us?”

“Our surveys and results are a vital part of our outcome Assessment Program at ACHS,” said ACHS Senior Vice President Erika Yigzaw, who serves as the Institutional Improvement Officer. “We appreciate and value students’ feedback and comments, which we ‘feed back’ into our cycle of improvement. This cycle keeps us at the forefront of our industry.”

“We had our largest enrollment and number of courses starting January 2010,” said ACHS President Dorene Petersen. “That’s exciting! It feels wonderful to know our students are satisfied and happy with their studies, to know we’re meeting their needs, which is something we plan to do well into the future.”

Read the full press here, including more information about ACHS's plans for future development: http://www.achs.edu/news/news-detail.aspx?nid=220

OR on eSchool News here: http://www.eschoolnews.com/2010/03/10/after-several-key-developments-in-2009-the-american-college-of-healthcare-sciences-sees-the-positive-results-in-student-satisfaction/

National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine is Changing Directions

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) is "expected to focus less on the large human clinical trials common in the past and more on fundamental research," according to an article released by the American Botanical Council (ABC).

The Center, which is entering its second decade of operations, will continue to dedicate more than 50% of its research to human studies, but will move towards a more "patient-centered approach," focusing on "effectiveness-based studies emphasizing interventions in real-world settings."

Dr. Josephine P. Briggs, NCCAM Director, told ABC that "All of us recognize that assessing how modalities work in real world settings is critical,” and she noted a study that "uses existing data, including 5 years of insurance claims, to compare outcomes, quality of care, and costs of patients who use CAM providers for back pain treatment with those who do not."

You can read more about potential areas of focus for NCCAM research, as well as how these changes may influence CAM modalities and the general healthcare system, from Herbal Gram: http://cms.herbalgram.org/heg/Volume7/02%20February/NCCAM_Future.html?t=1265060114

ACHS featured in Real Authentic Woman magazine

In 1978, Dorene Petersen founded a college in New Zealand, designed to bring distance-learning and study of Complementary Alternative Medicine (CAM) a.k.a. holistic health, to interested students, living outside the college geographic locale. In 1989, Ms. Petersen brought ACHS to the United States, establishing the college in Oregon, where it has grown and expanded during these 20 years.

The value and necessity of holistic health practice and treatment, which considers the person--mind, spirit and body--as a whole, has increased tremendously since 1989, as Western medicine has consistently been shown to be incomplete in its approach to treatments of many conditions (especially preventative practices). Often Western medicine will damage a system of the body, in treating another system, such as is the case with chemotherapy. Holistic health knowledge and practice has never been more pertinent and ACHS is the leader in the holistic, alternative healthcare world, providing serious instruction and guidance to hundreds of students, most of whom have eyes on a career as alternative healthcare practitoners--but also "hobbyists" who wish to apply these ancient, time-tested principles of healing and health maintenance to themselves and their families.

>>Download the complete article about ACHS in PDF format here

© 2009 Emerson Sandow, Real Authentic Woman Magazine: http://www.bluetoad.com/publication/?i=21687

Physicians Can Benefit from Adding CAM to Their Practices

The American Academy of Family Physicians released a new article on their website earlier this month, "New Report Details Billions Americans Spend on Complementary Alternative Medicine," which explores growing use of CAM in the U.S. and by family physicians.

According to the article, "U.S. adults spent a total of $33.9 billion out-of-pocket on CAM products, classes and materials and on visits to CAM professionals in 2007. Ten years earlier, that out-of-pocket figure was estimated at $27 billion."

Therefore, family physicians can benefit from incorporating CAM into their practices in many ways. For example, the AAFP article explains how "family physicians can build in discussions of CAM during face-to-face office visits for specific complaints [...] by suggesting, for example, nasal irrigation for allergies and respiratory problems; yoga relaxation breathing for insomnia and anxiety; yin yoga for back, hip and flexibility problems; journaling for grief, depression, rheumatoid arthritis and asthma; and meditation and prayer for hypertension, stress and depression.

In addition, "New Report Details Billions Americans Spend on Complementary Alternative Medicine," includes information about CAM remedies that the AAFP feels have been proven effective in studies. Examples listed in the article include:

• glucosamine sulfate for osteoarthritis;
• saw palmetto for benign prostatic hyperplasia;
• topical tea tree oil for acne;
• turmeric for prevention of Alzheimer's disease and as an anti-inflammatory;
• melatonin for insomnia;
• fish oil for heart disease; and
• ginkgo biloba for vascular dementias and claudication.

>> If you're interested in learning more about CAM for personal or professional use, visit the American College of Healthcare Sciences website at www.achs.edu

>> To read the full-length article, visit the American Academy of Family Physician website at http://www.aafp.org or CLICK HERE

American spend billions on alternative medicine

According to a July 30 article on WebMD, Americans "spend almost a third as much money out-of pocket on herbal supplements and other alternative medicines as they do on prescription drugs."

In a new government report, out-of-pocket spending on alternative medicines like herbal supplements, chiropractic visits, and meditation was estimated at about $34 billion in one year.

“The bottom line is that Americans spend a lot of money on CAM products, classes, materials and practitioner visits,” National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) Director Josephine P. Briggs, MD, said. “We estimate that this (represents) approximately 11% of the total out-of-pocket spending on health care.”

Highlights from the report released by NCHS and NCAAM include:

• In 2007, 38 million adults spent $12 billion on about 354 million visits to CAM practitioners.
  
• Two-thirds of the out-of-pocket spending did not involve a practitioner, but alternatives like over-the-counter herbal therapies, classes, and materials.
  
• The largest single expenditure was for "non-vitamin, non-mineral herbal supplements and other products (almost $15 billion) followed by practitioner visits ($12 billion), stretching and meditation-related classes such as yoga, tai chi, and qigong ($4 billion), homeopathic medicines ($2.9 billion) and relaxation techniques ($0.2 billion)."

Briggs further commented that chronic pain, back pain in specific, is the most common reason people use alternative medicine. “Americans," Briggs said, "turn to treatments like acupuncture, chiropractic care, and massage therapy to deal with these painful conditions,” adding that groups like the American College of Physicians and the American Pain Society are on record as endorsing these therapies as useful options for the treatment of chronic back pain.

>> Click here for more information about CAM training

>> Click here to read the complete WebMD article on CAM

ACHS now offers six graduate certificates for specialized CAM training

July 23, 2009--The American College of Healthcare Sciences (ACHS) has launched six new graduate certificate programs in the field of complementary alternative medicine (CAM). These new certificates impart graduate-level specialized training with less time and financial commitment found in the more traditional master’s program. ACHS graduate certificates provide healthcare professionals with more in-depth knowledge of holistic health and wellness protocols and the ability to better serve the health needs of their communities.

ACHS graduate certificates require 12 credits of study, or four 16-week courses for completion, and are available in the fastest growing integrative healthcare modalities. ACHS graduate certificates include: Graduate Certificate in Nutrition, Graduate Certificate in Anatomy and Physiology, Graduate Certificate in Complementary Alternative Medicine, Graduate Certificate in Aromatherapy, Graduate Certificate in Herbal Medicine, and Graduate Certificate in Botanical Safety.

Today, more and more people are turning to preventative care as a solution to rising healthcare costs. The healthcare industry needs professionals trained in holistic health and wellness protocols, as well as botanical safety and drug and supplement interactions. With an ACHS graduate certificate, healthcare professionals can:

• Enhance their employability and job growth with each specialized certificate.
• Train to meet the growing demand for educated and trusted CAM professionals.
• Learn botanical safety.
• Increase ancillary services offered, thereby increasing clients and income.
• Educate others about wellness and complementary alternative medicine.

Students who enroll in a graduate certificate program will benefit from the same amenities as ACHS Masters of Science in Complementary Alternative Medicine students, including access to the extensive Natural Standards and Natural Medicines databases, full text, online journal resources; instructors who are industry experts; highly interactive online classes and instructor-led discussions; and training from the industry-leader in accredited, online holistic health education.

The ACHS graduate certificate programs are open to new students, as well as current ACHS students, and can be completed while pursuing a Masters of Science in Complementary Alternative Medicine. For more information and detailed course descriptions, visit www.achs.edu or call ACHS Admissions at (800) 487-8839.

American College of Healthcare Sciences is the only accredited, fully online college offering degrees, diplomas, and career-training certificates in complementary alternative medicine. Founded in 1978, ACHS is committed to exceptional online education and is recognized as an industry leader in holistic health education worldwide. For more information about ACHS programs and community wellness events, visit www.achs.edu, call (800) 487-8839, or stop by the College campus located at 5940 SW Hood Ave., Portland OR 97239.

ACHS now offers six graduate certificates for specialized CAM training

July 23, 2009--The American College of Healthcare Sciences (ACHS) has launched six new graduate certificate programs in the field of complementary alternative medicine (CAM). These new certificates impart graduate-level specialized training with less time and financial commitment found in the more traditional master’s program. ACHS graduate certificates provide healthcare professionals with more in-depth knowledge of holistic health and wellness protocols and the ability to better serve the health needs of their communities.

ACHS graduate certificates require 12 credits of study, or four 16-week courses for completion, and are available in the fastest growing integrative healthcare modalities. ACHS graduate certificates include: Graduate Certificate in Nutrition, Graduate Certificate in Anatomy and Physiology, Graduate Certificate in Complementary Alternative Medicine, Graduate Certificate in Aromatherapy, Graduate Certificate in Herbal Medicine, and Graduate Certificate in Botanical Safety.

Today, more and more people are turning to preventative care as a solution to rising healthcare costs. The healthcare industry needs professionals trained in holistic health and wellness protocols, as well as botanical safety and drug and supplement interactions. With an ACHS graduate certificate, healthcare professionals can:

• Enhance their employability and job growth with each specialized certificate.
• Train to meet the growing demand for educated and trusted CAM professionals.
• Increase ancillary services offered, thereby increasing clients and income.
• Educate others about wellness and complementary alternative medicine.

Students who enroll in a graduate certificate program will benefit from the same amenities as ACHS Masters of Science in Complementary Alternative Medicine students, including access to the extensive Natural Standards and Natural Medicines databases, full text, online journal resources; instructors who are industry experts; highly interactive online classes and instructor-led discussions; and training from the industry-leader in accredited, online holistic health education.

The ACHS graduate certificate programs are open to new students, as well as current ACHS students, and can be completed while pursuing a Masters of Science in Complementary Alternative Medicine. For more information and detailed course descriptions, visit www.achs.edu or call ACHS Admissions at (800) 487-8839.

American College of Healthcare Sciences is the only accredited, fully online college offering degrees, diplomas, and career-training certificates in complementary alternative medicine. Founded in 1978, ACHS is committed to exceptional online education and is recognized as an industry leader in holistic health education worldwide. For more information about ACHS programs and community wellness events, visit www.achs.edu, call (800) 487-8839, or stop by the College campus located at 5940 SW Hood Ave., Portland OR 97239.

American College announces hire of Dr. Arianna Staruch, ND, as Academic Dean

Portland, OR—July 15, 2009—American College of Healthcare Sciences has hired Dr. Arianna Staruch, ND, to serve as Academic Dean effective July 1, 2009. Dr. Staruch will oversee all aspects of the College’s educational programs and new course and program development to better meet the growing demand for accredited, online holistic health education.

The development of this new position marks a period of expansion for ACHS, and follows the College’s official name change from the Australasian College of Health Sciences to the American College of Healthcare Sciences on May 1, 2009. This transition from Australasian to American College celebrates the College’s 20th anniversary of operations in the United States and better represents the College’s long-term goals as an Institute of Higher Learning in the U.S.

Dr. Staruch, who started her work in medical research in 1978, will work with College President Dorene Petersen and Vice President Erika Yigzaw to expanded course offerings, including a Bachelors of Science with a major in Complementary Alternative Medicine expected to launch fall 2009 and several career-training and graduate certificate programs. “We are delighted to welcome Dr. Staruch to this new position,” says Dorene Petersen. “Dr. Staruch is a terrific addition to help ACHS move forward with expanding holistic health course offerings that will provide our students with the opportunity to have meaningful, healthy careers and lifestyles.”

Dr. Staruch has more than 30 years’ experience in the healthcare field. Before graduating from the National College of Natural Medicine in 1997, Dr. Staruch worked in medical research for both the Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and the Cornell University Medical College. As a licensed naturopathic physician, Dr. Staruch has maintained a naturopathic practice in Oregon focused on women’s health and allergies, and has been a member of ACHS faculty for more than six years.

American College of Healthcare Sciences is the only accredited, fully online college offering degrees, diplomas, and career-training certificates in complementary alternative medicine. Founded in 1978, ACHS is committed to exceptional online education and is recognized as an industry leader in holistic health education worldwide. For more information about ACHS programs and community wellness events, visit www.achs.edu, call (503) 244-0726, or stop by the College campus located at 5940 SW Hood Ave., Portland OR 97239.