Alternative Medicines: On the Way towards Integration?

During the past few decades, alternative medicines have gained increasing importance in Western countries. This book is the first extensive, comparative and interdisciplinary study on the subject. The recent evolution of these alternative techniques is considered from the perspective of their integration into Western medical systems. The first part of the research is an overview of the current position of alternative medicines in some Western countries. Sociological elements as well as various research and educational issues are presented. The study then focuses on the licensing to practise alternative medicine and the coverage of alternative medicines. The second part of the study analyses and compares the most important regulatory mechanisms. Proposals are also made for the regulation of alternative medicines. The last chapter deals with the concept of an integrated system of medicine. The main components of the system are presented and compared to current trends and a theoretical model. Moreover, the book addresses the questions: What is an integrated system of medicine? Are we moving towards such a system? If so, what are the reasons and is such a shift reasonable and feasible?

Autorentext

The Author: Stefano Maddalena received his Ph.D. from the School of Law of the University of Neuchâtel. After having worked as a scientist at the Institute of Health Law at the University of Neuchâtel, he was a visiting scholar at Columbia School of Law. He also cooperated with the EU COST Action B4 at the European Commission and with the Traditional Medicine Program at the World Health Organisation. He is now Head of the Legal Department at Audemars Piguet Holding SA.

Inhalt

Contents: The Current Position of Alternative Medicines in Western Countries: Concepts and Definitions - The Extent of Alternative Medicines - Research and Education - Licensing to Practise Alternative Medicines - The Coverage of Alternative Medicines - Analysis of the Current Position of Alternative Medicines in Western Countries: Scientific Background for Regulating Alternative Medicines - Building a Regulatory Framework - An Integrated System of Medicine.