Complementary and alternative medicine in Korea: current status and future prospects

Area of Science:

• Medical Sociology
• Health Services Research
• History of Medicine

Background:

• Traditional Oriental medicine is historically significant in Korea.
• Western medicine was introduced in the late 19th century and became dominant.
• Post-Korean War, government revived Oriental medicine alongside Western medicine.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the current landscape of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in Korea.
• To address the mistrust between Western and traditional medicine practitioners.
• To explore the need for integration within the Korean healthcare system.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of historical trends in Korean medical practices.
• Review of recent survey data on CAM usage and healthcare expenditure.
• Examination of governmental and medical community perspectives on healthcare integration.

Main Results:

• CAM is prevalent in Korea, with usage rates between 29% and 53%.
• CAM therapies constitute a significant portion (29%) of out-of-pocket healthcare costs.
• A notable mistrust exists between Western medicine practitioners and CAM due to differing standards.

Conclusions:

• Integrating Western and traditional Oriental medicine in Korea is recognized as necessary.
• Developing standardized criteria for CAM safety and efficacy is crucial.
• Consensus-building among diverse medical practitioners is essential for successful healthcare integration.