INAM’s concept of PIM is that it is an awareness, a 
consciousness of viewing health as a state of total 
well-being resulting from the interplay of socio-economic, 
political and spiritual aspects of life. Basic to this 
consciousness is the understanding that health is a 
fundamental human right and responsibility of the individual 
and, collectively, of the community

The relationship among those who uphold this 
consciousness is characterized by partnership, 
of one among equals, being interdependent and 
mutually transformative of each other. The practice 
of PIM is expressed with the values of respect, equality, 
participation, responsibility, interdependence, solidarity, 
mutuality and openness. 

This PIM consciousness adheres to the integration of 
different systems of medicine based on empirical and 
scientific knowledge, rooted in the culture of the people.
Such an integrated system addresses the health problems 
in the community through promotive, preventive, curative and 
rehabilitative services, which are accessible, affordable, 
available, effective and acceptable to the people. 

PIM, as an evolving consciousness, emphasizes the direct, 
responsible and sustained participation of people in the 
development of their alternative health care systems, an 
indicator of the fulfillment of their aspiration for self-determination.