IFM | Whole Health: Medicine’s Course Correction

In this episode of Inside Family Medicine Andrew Bazemore, MD, MPH, and Beth Polk, MD, FAAFP join us to discuss whole health in primary care. Dr. Bazemore distinguishes whole health (physical, behavioral, spiritual and socioeconomic well-being across individuals, families and communities) from whole health care (how care is organized), emphasizing a shift from “What’s the matter with you?” to “What matters to you?” Dr. Polk connects whole health to lifestyle medicine’s pillars and stresses addressing drivers of outcomes beyond the exam room, including social needs. They cite examples from the VA whole health model and community health centers, discuss team-based care, group visits and using existing evaluation and management (E/M) billing while advocating for payment reform. The episode highlights training needs in residency programs, small, actionable practice changes, clinician well-being and the risks and opportunities of AI in supporting whole health. Topics by timestamp 00:00 Welcome and guests 01:25 Why family medicine 03:36 Why whole health now 05:22 Defining whole health 08:22 Lifestyle medicine link 10:54 Principles and team care 13:03 Real-world examples 16:09 Billing and payment reality 22:05 Training and resources 25:57 Takeaways and next steps 29:51 Salutogenesis explained 30:57 AI and closing Additional resources Family Physicians: Leaders in Whole Health - https://www.aafp.org/pubs/fpm/issues/... AAFP Pilot Program Shows Value of Lifestyle Medicine - https://www.aafp.org/news/health-of-t... Prevention & Wellness - https://www.aafp.org/family-physician... Scaling Whole Health Strategies in Primary Care: Action Brief - https://www.aafp.org/dam/AAFP/documen... Disclaimer: Copyright 2026. AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker’s own and do not represent those of AAFP. The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice. AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use. Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise. AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians.