The Relationship between the Alternative Practitioner and His Patient A Review

Abstract

The present paper reviews the empirical studies which have dealt with the therapeutic relationship between the alternative practitioner and his patient. These are based mainly on interviews with patients of nonmedical practitioners of alternative medicine which have been carried out in a few industrialized countries. When evaluating the results of these investigations, one has to consider a number of methodological pitfalls. Nevertheless, there is sufficient evidence for the statement that an asset of the alternative practitioner is his ability to meet the emotional needs of his patients very well. The paper discusses the causes being relevant to this finding and comments on its implications for the practice of orthodox medicine.

Examining Health Beliefs, Attitudes and Behaviours Relate to Complementary and Orthodox Medicine Use in Chinese Population

“…GPs are generally perceived to be more "formal" than complementary practitioners are [30], but CM practitioners tend to give more time for consultation [31] and may enjoy the advantage of the "power of touch"-compared to GPs, CM practitioners seem to undertake physical examination more frequently. Furnham and Kirkcaldy (1996) [6] reported that GP practice was less satisfied by CM patients.…”

Counseling and Naturopathy: Exploring Collaboration between Counseling and an Alternative Medical Model

“…We can choose to view those who seek alternative care as people who have a greater sensitivity towards their body, are confident that they can make a difference in improving their health, and have a greater desire for long-term health. In general, clients who value an egalitarian therapeutic relationship (Hewer, 1983), aspire towards a greater degree of participation in health care decisions and the wellness process, and are less likely to passively accede to the treatments prescribed by their health care provider.…”

Psychology, hospitalization and some thoughts on medical training

“…For example, blame is often put on the sprawling bureaucracies that modern health-care systems have become, with patients unhappy at feeling 'processed' rather than 'treated' (e.g. Hewer 1983). However, depersonalization sometimes results from less innocent factors.…”