The consequences of integrating complementary and alternative medicine: An analysis of impacts on practice

The call for increased integration of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) with biomedicine implies an acceptance and compatibility of the theories, practices and research of these medicines, as well as recognition of consumer demand. CAMs slow integration into hospital systems, medical practices and research institutes can be argued to provide greater choice and autonomy to the medical consumer. As this mainstreaming of CAM continues it not only produces these potential 'goods' but also negative unintended consequences for the various practices that CAM encompasses, which in turn impacts on the consumer. CAM is often reflected poorly using the standard tools of evidence-based medicine (EBM) assessment which is demanded by not only medical institutions but also funding bodies. This paper examines the complex interactions generated by this process giving attention to the consequences for CAM practitioners and the subsequent impact on practice and accordingly on the consumer.