Authors' objectives:

The present report looks into the feasibility of scientific evaluation of alternative modes of treatment (alternative or complementary medicine).

Authors' results and conclusions: The present report looks into the feasibility of scientific evaluation of alternative modes of treatment (alternative or complementary medicine). Effectiveness of these treatments can be assessed both at a pragmatic and a fundamental level. A pragmatic approach employs `black box' techniques, and relies on established methods from the humanities, the sciences and social sciences. The committee sets out the requirements to be met for such approaches. Any attempt to assess effectiveness at a more fundamental level will reveal major differences in the interpretation of concepts like `illness', `disease', `health', `curing' and `healing'. To overcome these differences an exhaustive look at the many components that play a role in different methods of treatment and in healing processes is necessary. Studies of the nature and extent of the placebo phenomenon, being of overall importance in any therapy, will constitute a first step.

Authors' recommendations: The committee formulates proposals concerning coordination of scientific research on the effectiveness of alternative modes of treatment, registration of alternative professionals, distribution of information to lay-public and mainstream professionals, and registration of alternative drugs.

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.gr.nl/

Year Published: 1993

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: Netherlands

Organisation Name: Health Council of the Netherlands Gezondheidsraad

Contact Address: Postbus 16052, 2500 BB Den Haag, The Netherlands. Tel: +31 70 340 7520;Fax: +31 70 340 7523

Contact Name: info@gr.nl

Contact Email: info@gr.nl

Copyright: Health Council of the Netherlands