An Ethical Framework for Complementary and Alternative Therapies

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has been repeatedly accused of enjoying a ‘free ride’. In terms of medical ethics, this may be truer than in other areas. To any CAM providers, the principles of ethics are intuitively felt and hopefully adhered to but not formalised or debated. Julie Stone has a good track record of steering the CAM world towards a more responsible attitude towards medical ethics. In her new book, she convincingly points out that ethics are as pertinent to CAM as they are to any type of medicine.

Following a very logical structure, the book first lays out a map of medical ethics. Its main section is dedicated to the application of the rules of ethics to CAM. Julie Stone covers the areas of professional competence, research, supervision, continuing professional development, abuse, informed consent, honesty, confidentiality, patient contracts, duties towards children and incapacitated adults, and issues related to justice. The third part of the book is a detailed application of ethical principles to CAM in everyday practice.

This book is essential reading for all CAM practitioners and most CAM researchers. Julie Stone emphasises that there cannot be two standards in medical ethics and provides a most valuable, jargon-free text so that everyone can familiarise themselves with the sometimes complex issues involved. In other words, she asks highly relevant questions and provides helpful answers. This book has the potential to impact significantly on CAM as it is practised today.