An ethical protocol for complementary and alternative medicine practitioners in an orthodox medicine regime

Concern that has been expressed about the provision of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in an orthodox medicine context with regard to the possibility of a client not being referred to the latter when the condition is readily dealt with by it. There have been some negative outcomes for clients when orthodox medicine has not been used when it was clearly indicated. Complementary and alternative medicine has many strengths for clients but it behoves a CAM practitioner to consider circumstances when it is appropriate to refer a client to orthodox medicine or to work in a complementary manner with orthodox medicine. This article suggests some guidelines that CAM practitioners should consider when assessing the circumstances when referral to orthodox medicine is indicated to support ethical practice for the benefit of the client.