Module code: HWS5005-B
To explore the origins, development and use of complementary & alternative medicine (CAM) and develop an understanding of the place of CAM in contemporary health care practice.
Defining, classifying and categorising complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). The historical origins, rationale and current practices of CAM, including specific focus on the main therapies, e.g. acupuncture, herbal medicine, homeopathy, osteopathy, reflexology. The contemporary use complementary therapies in health care - social and psychological perspectives: surveys of population use; reasons for using CAM compared to mainstream treatment options for particular conditions; CAM in primary care; attractions of CAM compared to orthodox medicine. Ethical issues and accountability in the practice of CAM. The role of research: evidence-based practice; evidence of efficacy and effectiveness for the main therapies; hierarchies of evidence and types of evidence; the role of placebo.
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