Dr Thomas Holzknecht, Integrative and Holistic Medicine, Saanen/Gstaad

After introducing his philosophy of integrative medicine in Gstaad My Love, Dr Thomas Holzknecht continues the conversation in Gstaad Live, reflecting on patient experiences, modern holistic medicine and his outlook for healthcare in the region. Dr Holzknecht practises under the name Coming Home by Dr Thomas, a concept rooted in balance, vitality and personal rhythm. His approach combines evidence-based conventional medicine with selected holistic therapies, centred on treating the root causes of health issues over time, listening, and individualised care.

What are your experiences with patients, especially during the winter season?
The winter season often brings people more deeply in touch with their physical and emotional limits. Many of my patients here a re t houghtf ul, wellinformed and used to high standards of care. I value this openness.

What makes the region special is its international character. People often acter. People often come from London, New York or other global centres, bringing diverse medical experiences. This exchange is enriching. It reveals both shared values and contrasting approaches and reminds me how vital respectful cross-border communication is to our work.

Where do you see the greatest challenges in modern holistic medicine?
A key challenge is the growing wish not only to avoid illness but to feel truly alive and vital. The term longevity is often used but too easily reduced to a trend, a product or something one can buy. In truth, health is not something to consume. Buying supplements or undergoing treatments doesn’t automatically lead to a deeper understanding.

To me, health is a way of being: physical, emotional and mental. It’s shaped by biology, values and habits. It’s not about the quantity of interventions but about long-term coherence. This understanding of individuality lies at the heart of holistic medicine today.

Your background includes conventional and emergency medicine. How does this shape your work?
My experience in anaesthesia and emergency medicine shaped my ability to stay composed and precise when situations become acute.

Although my work today focuses on preventive and integrative care, there are moments, as happened this winter, when urgent medical intervention is necessary. In such cases, I respond immediately with the necessary equipment, provide stabilisation and coordinate closely with emergency services to ensure a safe and seamless handover. This readiness is simply part of the responsibility that comes with being a medical doctor and not unique to me. While such cases remain rare, they are a quiet but essential aspect of my work. At its core, however, my practice is devoted to strengthening resilience and long-term well-being so that such emergencies become less likely.

What is your outlook for Gstaad and the future of healthcare?
Gstaad offers unique conditions for health: clean air, altitude, natural beauty and a peaceful rhythm. These factors naturally support healing and regeneration.

There is great potential to develop healthcare here in a way that is accessible, inclusive and locally rooted, not just for international guests but equally for the community. Gstaad could grow into a recognised centre of integrative health where medicine and wellbeing meet meaningfully. I’m grateful to contribute to this evolution step by step as part of this region.

Learn more: exclusive · individual · integrative
Coming Home Group AG health@drthomas.ch · +41 78 339 22 72
Hindergässli 16 · 3792 Saanen
www.drthomas.ch