Am J Public Health. 2002 Oct; 92(10): 1579-81.

Complementary or alternative? Stronger vs weaker integration policies.

Hess DJ.

Science and Technology Studies Department, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, 110 8th Street, Sage Building 5th Floor, Troy, NY 12180-3590, USA. hessd@rpi.edu

Scientific research is particularly important as a guide to health care policy regarding the "integration" of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) into conventional medical practices. A spectrum of possibilities has emerged around the question of balancing integration toward complementary vs alternative usages. Although scientific research can guide policies and practices, it has become subject to greater scrutiny and linked to differences on policy issues. Using CAM cancer therapies as a case study, this commentary explores relationships between methodology and policy regarding the integration of CAM therapies.