Understanding Differences Between Holistic, Alternative, and Complementary Medicine

Further Insights: Integrating Holistic Medicine into Conventional Medical Training

One of the most promising applications is that of integrating these alternative and complementary medical treatments and philosophies into conventional medical training. It would be an enormous departure for western medical schools but might provide emerging doctors with a greater understanding of and respect for these medical systems which it’s likely they have no knowledge of or experience with. Although this represents an intriguing and perhaps promising concept, there are certainly hurdles to overcome before elements of homeopathy, Herbalism and TCM could be integrated into conventional medical training. There is still skepticism in conventional medicine concerning these alternative forms of medicine. Indeed, there would also be the issue of how much alternative information should and would be allowed.

Given that millions of people worldwide are turning to alternative medicine and a more holistic approach in general to their healthcare, conventional medicine may begin to be out of step with the times if they don’t review the method for preparing/training new doctors and other practitioners to include the holistic approach.

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