Session 11 - Complementary Therapy

Question 1

Define complementary therapy

Answer 1

The practice of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) involves any medical system based on a theory of disease or method of treatment other than the orthodox science of medicine as taught in medical schools.

Question 2

Give five reasons people turn to complementary therapy

Answer 2

o Persistent symptoms
o Real or perceived adverse effects of conventional treatments
o Preference for ‘holistic’ approach to their problem
o May feel they receive more time and attention
o High level of satisfaction reported

Question 3

Give five concerns doctors have about complementary therapies

Answer 3

 Patients may see unqualified practitioners
 May risk missed or delayed diagnosis
 May refuse conventional treatment
 May waste money on ineffective treatments
 The mechanisms of some complementary treatments is so implausible it cannot work, e.g. homeopathy

Question 4

Give three reasons evidence base for complementary therapy is poor

Answer 4

o Who will fund the trials?
o Trial of single intervention may not reflect reality
o Difficult to make double-blind

Question 5

Give five arguments for NICE evaluating complementary therapy

Answer 5

High public interest
Half GPs provide access
Could address inequalities in access/opportunity
Should apply same standards
NICE could stimulate more/higher quality research

Question 6

Give three arguments against NICE evaluating complementary therapy

Answer 6

Money in NHS limited
NICE has higher priorities
Poor quality evidence

Question 7

Outline aromatherapy

Answer 7

Controlled use of essential oils with therapeutic properties.
Practicioners topically massage oils into patient.
Thought to stimulate limbic system of the midbrain

Question 8

Give two oils and their claimed effects

Answer 8

Basil - Sharpens concentration

Clove oil - Topical analgesic