Changing physician perspectives on complementary and alternative medicine: the need for a top-down approach

The prevalence and characteristics of complementary medicine use by Australians living with sleep disorders – Results of a cross-sectional study

“…Most Australian users appear to integrate the use of CMs with conventional therapy rather than using them as alternative treatments [13]. Despite this integrated approach by patients, disclosure about CM use to physicians has been reported as poor [11] raising concerns about the potential for poor treatment outcomes associated with non-adherence to physician-prescribed treatments and/or drug-CM interactions [14]. Australians with sleep disorders are likely to consider CM use in self-treatment paradigms by purchasing products through retail outlets, or through consultation with a diverse range of CM practitioners.…”

Role of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Treatment and Prevention of Obesity; Molecular Strategies to Recommended Acceptance

“…Although, it is one of the vital factors to teach and educate medical students at universities and hospitals about CAM; which can be assumed as a "bottom-up" approach for preparing the health care system for improved integration of CAM. However, "top-down" changes are required and suggested to enhance patient care and health [16].…”

“…The top-down approach proposes to better illustrate CAM's role in contemporary health care, modifications must originate from governing organizations and administrations in the form of clearer recommendations. There is no clear agreement with the medical community regarding the efficacy of CAM therapies [16,17]. There is a serious need to discuss at social and legislative levels to even include it as an integrated part of the curriculum in the medical syllabus and also as a complementary framework in medicinal and health sciences under specific clear outcomes.…”