The Debate On The Most Appropriate Course Of Action
Traditionally, doctors who practice Western medicine traditionally have not been too accepting of the value of holistic or natural medicine. The first issue that comes to mind is the ego of the individuals concerned. The Western doctors are determined to maintain their supremacy over the health matters of the community while the holistic and natural are determined to be part of the process even if this means that there is an increased likelihood for friction. This struggle will define the way that the different elements react to the research developments in the medical world. A large majority of Western Medicine Practitioners are frankly dismissive of anything that is outside their technical understanding.
On the other hand the holistic and natural medicine has not done itself any favors with the vagueness with which the case is presented. Some seemingly reasonable assumptions are spoilt by some outlandish claims that border on the supernatural. This has made a significant portion of the public very skeptical about the value of these schemes and the seriousness with which they should be taken. It is an unfortunate fact that there is an increasing clamor for services and institutions that deride anything that is out of the ordinary. The holistic and natural medicine sector can only make its case through reasoned arguments rather than mumbo jumbo. This issue is far too important to be subverted by the whims of the different elements within the medication market. The attitudes of the Western doctors are partly defined by the action of their holistic and natural treatment cousins.
Evidence based research will become crucial to the possibilities of gaining wider acceptable for the tenets of the holistic and natural treatment world. Without this sort of research work, the general Western medical profession will be working on the basis of negative stereotypes that are damaging to the promotion of complementary medicine. It is also important for people that are working within the holistic and natural treatment industry not to exaggerate the healing properties of the medicines that they market. If they are unrealistic in their presentation then it is not likely that they will be taken seriously. In fact it will take the whole cause backwards. Is it then a priority for doctors?
In truth the Western doctors have an interest in keeping their patients healthy. This interest should override any prejudices and group think that might turn them against holistic and natural treatment. However, they also have the responsibility of ensuring that their patients are not exploited by charlatans that pretend to be in the process of developing the latest medical treatments when in fact they are simply experimenting with the whole setup. It is also important that the medication that is provided by the holistic and natural treatment practitioners is consistent in practice. If the results are not consistent then it is likely that the Western medical world will not agree to officially recognize this form of help for patients. That would be a pity for the patients.
It is important for medical practitioners on both sides to find a balance between both methods. It is only our opinion, but we believe there is a place for both Western and Holistic medicines and practices in today's medical world. Some Doctors are beginning to recognize the benefits of this balance and are incorporating natural healing and health practices into their western medicine cabinets and vice versa. How long will it be before we see a Western Medicine Doctor prescribe Resveratrol to their patients? We think it is sooner rather than later!
Comments