Complementary and alternative groups contemplate the need for effectiveness, safety and cost-effectiveness research

• Published in: Complementary therapies in medicine Vol. 10; no. 4; pp. 235 - 239
• Main Authors: Kelner, M.J, Boon, H., Wellman, B, Welsh, S
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Scotland Elsevier Ltd 01.12.2002
• Subjects: Attitude of Health Personnel; Chiropractic; Complementary Therapies; Cost-Benefit Analysis; Homeopathy; Humans; Interviews as Topic; Safety; Therapeutic Touch
• ISSN: 0965-2299; 1873-6963
• DOI: 10.1016/S0965-2299(02)00076-6

Objective: To examine the views of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) groups on the need to demonstrate the effectiveness, safety and cost-effectiveness of their therapies and practices. Design: Qualitative interviews were conducted with 22 representatives of three CAM groups (chiropractic, homeopathy and Reiki). Qualitative content analysis was used to identify similarities and differences among and across groups. Setting: Ontario, Canada. Results: There were striking differences in the views of the three sets of respondents. The chiropractors agreed that it was essential for their group to provide scientific evidence that their interventions work, are safe and cost-effective. The leaders of the homeopathic group were divided on these points and the Reiki respondents showed virtually no interest in undertaking such research. Conclusions: CAM groups that are more formally organized are most likely to recognize the importance of scientific research on their practices and therapies.