Website of the Department of Health

Complementary medicine: information pack for primary care groups

This document aims to provide primary care groups (PCGs) with a reference source on forms of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) which are now being made accessible to patients by PCGs. It begins by defining terms and giving an overview of current CAM provision in primary care. The main body of the document deals with six individual therapies, namely acupuncture, aromatherapy, chiropractic, homeopathy, hypnotherapy, and osteopathy. In each case information is provided on conditions which are likely to benefit from treatment, practitioner qualifications, and registering bodies. The document also advises on making referrals and employing CAM practitioners, and supplies examples of current provision within PCGs and further information sources. Appendices provide details of CAM organisations, a list of relevant Internet sites, and suggestions for constituents of a contract for a non-medically qualified CAM practitioner providing services within the NHS. Cites numerous references

• Download Complementary medicine: information pack for primary care groups (PDF, 164K)