Goshen Center For Cancer Care Doctor Named Naturopathic Physician Of The Year

Main Category: Cancer / Oncology
Article Date: 05 Sep 2008 - 16:00 PDT

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Goshen Center for Cancer Care's Director of Integrated Care, Marcia Prenguber, ND, FABNO, has been chosen as the 2008 Naturopathic Physician of the Year by the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians.

Dr. Prenguber was honored, and presented with the award, during the AANP's 2008 Annual Convention & Exposition on Aug, 16 at the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa in Phoenix, Ariz.

Awarded annually since 1987, the title Naturopathic Physician of the Year is awarded to a doctor who not only exhibits excellence in leadership, ethics, and individual achievement, but who has also made the most significant impact for the growth of the profession.

"Dr. Prenguber articulates the dedication, passion and intellect that continues to move the naturopathic profession forward," said Karen Howard, Executive Director of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians. "Her service to the AANP, her colleagues and her patients stand as reflection of the profession's original leadership and is an inspiration to naturopathic medical graduates to come."

Dr. Prenguber was chosen for her work as President of the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME), Executive Committee Board Member on the Academic Consortium for Alternative and Complementary Health Care (ACCAHC), and for her role as Director of Integrative Care at Goshen Center for Cancer Care.

Throughout 2008 alone, Dr. Prenguber's individual achievements have been many, having traveled to Turkey to speak about naturopathic medicine; achieved Board Certification in Naturopathic Oncology; and re-established 5-year recognition by the US Department of Education for the CNME's role in accrediting naturopathic medical schools. Dr. Prenguber also played an integral role in Goshen Center for Cancer Care receiving the HOPE Award for Integration of Care by Hematology & Oncology News & Issues Magazine.

"It is such a huge privilege to be chosen for this honor," Dr. Prenguber said. "I couldn't ever have imagined this. I was speechless when I accepted the award, and am still without words. When I look at the list of previous Naturopathic Physicians of the Year - I am in awe of the group. It is the highest award in the naturopathic profession."

Fellow Naturopathic Physician, Goshen Center for Cancer Care's Dr. Emily Moore, who nominated Prenguber, said she "immediately thought of Marcia" when she learned the AANP had put out the call for worthy nominations.

"Each year (the AANP) chooses someone who has made great advancements in the Naturopathic Community," Moore said. "Not only has this been a really great year for Marcia, having presented to the Department of Education and being asked to speak internationally about Naturopathic Medicine, but she is an incredibly committed doctor who is very passionate about her patients and her work. She's done an amazing job bringing naturopathic medicine to this community."

Naturopathic medicine is a medical specialty that combines the latest research in modern medicine with centuries-old natural therapies to achieve total health and wellness.

At Goshen Center for Cancer Care, Dr. Prenguber and her staff use naturopathic medicine to strengthen the body's own internal cancer-fighting abilities. In addition to supporting the anti-tumor effects of conventional care and strengthening the immune system, naturopathic medicine also works to reduce side effects associated with surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Naturopathic medicine utilizes a variety of modalities to achieve these goals, including the therapeutic use of nutrients, as well as botanical medicine, hydrotherapy, massage and homeopathy.

As the Director of Integrative Care, Dr. Prenguber works closely with the cancer center's medical, surgical and radiation oncologists in the development and implementation of a cancer treatment plan that uses an integrated approach.

Dr. Prenguber received her naturopathic doctoral degree from the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland, Ore. She also received a master's degree in special education from Johns Hopkins University, a master's degree in educational administration from California State University, and has worked as both a teacher and as an administrator.

Dr. Prenguber's published work focuses on integrative care and the prevention of osteoporosis. She has lectured on a variety of topics, including men's health, heart health, fibromyalgia, menopause and botanical medicine. She helps patients understand what they can do to participate in their own healthcare program and teaches them new skills to do so.

Founded in 1985, the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) is the national professional society representing licensed or licensable naturopathic physicians who are graduates of four-year, residential programs. Each of the seven schools in North America is either accredited, or is a candidate for accreditation by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education, recognized the United States Department of Education.

Located in Washington, DC, the AANP has 38 official State Affiliates across the country. Membership consists of students, physicians, supporting and corporate members who collectively strive to expand access to naturopathic medicine nationwide.

About Goshen Center for Cancer Care

Goshen Center for Cancer Care is a leader in innovative cancer treatment. They were among the first to adopt a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to cancer treatment. They offer holistic programs for strengthening minds as well as bodies, place a premium on family involvement and spiritual needs, and encourage patients to play a decision-making role in treatment selection. Through this integrative team approach, the center provides medical, radiation, nuclear and surgical oncology as well as naturopathic medicine.

Goshen Center for Cancer Care is involved in, and sponsors, a number of clinical trials. Additionally, prevention, screening, diagnostic and treatment trials are conducted at the Goshen Center for Cancer Care, as well as quality of life trials and genetic trials. Clinical trials offered include treatments for breast cancer, colon cancer, Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma, lung cancer, esophageal cancer, head and neck cancer, liver cancer, melanoma, myeloma, prostate cancer and pancreatic cancer. http://cancer.goshenhealth.org

About Goshen Health System

Goshen Health System is a not-for-profit provider of health care that includes Goshen General Hospital, The Goshen Center for Cancer Care, Park Home Medical Equipment, PrimeCare Physician Network, Team:Bariatrics, The Retreat Women's Health Center and Indiana Lakes Managed Care Organization. The health system is an affiliate partner of Clarian Health.

Goshen Health System