Similia Vol 28 No 2 – December 2016

Author: Dr Isaac Golden

Abstract

1. Introduction

The aim of this paper is firstly to inform readers about six events which have impacted the future of traditional and complementary medicine (T&CM) in Australia, and determine whether they are independent or related. Some recent attempts to respond to these events will be examined. Finally  suggestions for practitioners regarding a possible response will be made.

2. Method

(i) Review what is known regarding the ethics underpinning the actions of multinational pharmaceutical corporations; (ii) Outline the preferred  evidence hierarchy of pharmaceutical medicine; (iii) Examine the six events noted above; (iv) Present facts relating to a political and other initiatives  launched in response to these events.

3. Results

Findings are presented in the following subsections:
a. The track record of pharmaceutical corruption.
b. The evidence hierarchy of pharmaceutical medicine.
c. The attacks on homeopathy and natural medicine. In turn this section examines 3.3.1 (2005) – the Shang article and the Lancet; 3.3.2 (2010) – the  UK Parliamentary Review; 3.3.3 (2011) – the formation of the Friends of Science in Medicine; 3.3.4 (2015) – the National Health and Medical Research  Council report on the effectiveness of 17 natural modalities; 3.3.5 (2015) – The impact on private health insurance rebates for natural therapies; 3.3.6 (2016) – Health Complaints legislation.

4. Discussion

Patterns of unethical behaviour and deception are evident in events commencing in the UK and continuing in Australia. The implications of these events for Australian T&CM therapists and their patients are discussed.

5. Conclusions

Work by associations to date has been valuable, but has not prevented the current situation from occurring. A political initiative should be considered  alongside other initiatives, but it will require T&CM practitioners to be informed, and be prepared to do something, however modest, to contribute to  the defence of natural medicine in Australia. Some options are considered.