Session 11 - Complementary Therapy Flashcards
Define complementary therapy
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.
Give five reasons people turn to complementary therapy
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
Give five concerns doctors have about complementary therapies
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
Give three reasons evidence base for complementary therapy is poor
o Who will fund the trials?
o Trial of single intervention may not reflect reality
o Difficult to make double-blind
Give five arguments for NICE evaluating complementary therapy
High public interest
Half GPs provide access
Could address inequalities in access/opportunity
Should apply same standards
NICE could stimulate more/higher quality research
Give three arguments against NICE evaluating complementary therapy
Money in NHS limited
NICE has higher priorities
Poor quality evidence
Outline aromatherapy
Controlled use of essential oils with therapeutic properties.
Practicioners topically massage oils into patient.
Thought to stimulate limbic system of the midbrain
Give two oils and their claimed effects
Basil - Sharpens concentration
Clove oil - Topical analgesic