As a family physician, my passion has always been caring for the whole person. Those of you familiar with the HOPE Note and my books, “How Healing Works” (2018) and “Healing and Cancer” (2024, coauthored with Dr. Alyssa McManamon), know this well. Now, I’m excited to announce that we are continuing this mission with updates to our free, printable pocket guides.
Evidence-based Information at Your Fingertips
Our team has carefully reviewed the latest scientific research and medical literature to ensure these guides reflect the most current evidence. We believe that informed decisions lead to better outcomes, which is why each guide includes recent studies and findings from respected medical journals and research institutions.
New Cancer Care Information
One of the most significant updates to our pocket guides is the addition of information about cancer care. Recent research has revealed promising ways that whole person health can support people during their cancer treatment journey. Examples from the updated pocket guides include:
- Breathwork. A 2024 study found that just 20 minutes of mindful breathing can significantly reduce cancer-related pain intensity. Additional research shows that specific breathing techniques like slow pursed lip breathing can help with post-surgical pain, while yogic breathing may improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety during chemotherapy.
- Veterans and cancer care. Our pocket guide has been extensively updated to reflect what we now know about cancer in the military veteran population to more fully support veterans, their families, and caregivers with the unique resources available to them. This includes information about the 2022 PACT Act that expands care for veterans with cancer and other conditions.
Updated Evidence Across All Guides
Our commitment to evidence-based medicine means we’ve incorporated the latest research findings throughout our guides. Where the original studies listed remain compelling, we have continued to reference them and urge sharing the guide with your doctor or other health care provider for their perspective.
Our pocket guides are designed to facilitate better conversations between people and their health care providers. They include:
- Clear explanations of each therapy
- Relevant research findings
- Safety information and precautions
- Questions to ask practitioners
- Insurance coverage information
- Tips for finding qualified providers
How to Use These Guides
Whether you’re a patient, family member, caregiver, or health care provider, the How We Heal Campaign pocket guides can help you learn about different treatment options, understand the latest evidence, and make informed decisions about care. They can help you find a qualified provider in your area and have more productive conversations with your health care team.
Access the Guides
Remember, whole person health works best when all your health care providers work together. Always talk with your primary care provider and any specialists before adopting any whole person health treatment or practice.