More Harm than Good?: The Moral Maze of Complementary and Alternative Medicine

This book explores the ethical violations of those who provide, recommend, or sell 'complementary and alternative medicine (CAM)' by analyzing academic literature and internet sources. It also presents brief scenarios about individuals who use CAM or fall prey to ethically dubious practitioners, providing a thorough ethical analysis of CAM modalities. It is a valuable resource for medical professionals and patients alike.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 223 pages
Publication date: 18 January 2018
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This comprehensive book delves into the pervasive violations of moral, ethical, and legal principles by individuals involved in the provision, recommendation, or sale of 'complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). It conducts a thorough analysis of both academic literature and internet sources that promote CAM, while also presenting a series of brief scenarios, both hypothetical and real-life, that revolve around individuals who utilize CAM or encounter ethically dubious CAM practitioners. These scenarios are designed to be relatable to a wide range of readers, as they could potentially occur to almost anyone.

To provide a robust ethical framework, the book is authored by Professor Emeritus of Complementary Medicine Edzard Ernst, in collaboration with bioethicist Kevin Smith. They offer a comprehensive and authoritative examination of various CAM modalities, including acupuncture, chiropractic, herbalism, and homeopathy. This book holds immense value for medical professionals who have contact with complementary medicine, serving as an invaluable resource for patients who are deliberating on the most suitable treatment approach.

Through its detailed exploration of CAM practices, the book sheds light on the ethical dilemmas and challenges that arise in this field. It raises important questions about the lack of scientific evidence supporting many CAM treatments, the potential risks and side effects associated with their use, and the potential for exploitation and misinformation by CAM practitioners. The authors also address the issue of patient autonomy and the importance of informed consent, highlighting the need for patients to be fully informed about the potential benefits and risks of any treatment they choose to pursue.

Furthermore, the book explores the role of healthcare professionals in navigating the complexities of CAM. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a neutral and unbiased stance, while also providing guidance on how to effectively communicate with patients who are interested in exploring CAM options. The authors suggest that healthcare professionals should approach CAM with an open mind, respect for patient preferences, and a commitment to providing evidence-based care that prioritizes the well-being of their patients.

In conclusion, this book serves as a crucial resource for anyone interested in understanding the ethical implications of CAM. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the issues at hand, offers valuable insights into the ethical challenges faced by CAM practitioners and patients, and provides practical guidance for healthcare professionals in navigating the complex terrain of CAM. By raising awareness about the ethical concerns associated with CAM, this book aims to promote a more informed and responsible approach to healthcare that prioritizes the well-being and rights of all individuals.

Weight: 404g
Dimension: 239 x 162 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783319699400
Edition number: 1st ed. 2018