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Complementary and alternative medicine in Canada: what is the future?
1Dundas Naturopathic Centre, Dundas, Ontario, Canada.
Healthcarepapers
|June 18, 2003
Summary
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is growing, encompassing traditional and newer practices. Regulation is needed to protect the public as CAM expands, focusing on established disciplines meeting professionalism criteria.
Area of Science:
- Integrative Medicine
- Public Health Policy
Background:
- Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is experiencing significant growth in patient numbers and financial investment.
- The term CAM encompasses both long-standing traditional medicine systems and novel health practices.
- Traditional medicine is characterized by its distinct philosophy and holistic approach, amenable to various research methodologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the evolving landscape of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM).
- To identify established CAM disciplines that align with traditional medicine and professionalism standards.
- To underscore the necessity for governmental regulation of CAM practices.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and analysis of existing CAM disciplines.
- Evaluation of CAM practices against criteria for traditional medicine and professionalism.
- Assessment of regulatory frameworks for public protection.
Main Results:
- Several major CAM disciplines qualify as both traditional medicine systems and professionalized fields.
- The proliferation of CAM necessitates a structured approach to oversight.
- Existing traditional medicine systems often form the basis of established CAM practices.
Conclusions:
- Governmental regulation is crucial for public safety in the expanding CAM sector.
- Prioritizing regulation for CAM disciplines meeting traditional and professional standards is recommended.
- A clear framework for evaluating and regulating CAM is essential for responsible growth.