The latest correspondence from Professor Gustav Born and colleagues challenging English Primary Care Trusts to abandon their provision of "unproven" complementary and alternative treatments for patients ignores the evidence and experience of many beneficiaries of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM.)

Regardless of the fact that clinical trials of these so called "unproven" approaches can show very positive results, the benefits to patients experiencing these therapies are real and tangible. The question must be asked, if symptoms are improving and the patient is feeling better, more in control and able to cope with the disease/illness, then how can that be dismissed so easily?

The NHS funding crisis will not be solved by reducing access to CAM; on the contrary, there is an economic argument in favour of making natural therapies more accessible in the NHS. Low cost therapies, such as Healing, which engender a feeling of well-being can assist the efficacy of orthodox medical treatments, such as drugs, and if widely used could help save money in the long term. Many healers work voluntarily, some are now paid through charitable trusts. Only two healers in the UK are paid by Primary Care Trusts - and both of these healers worked voluntarily first. Patient demand and positive feedback led to them being paid for their ongoing commitment.

The NHS should be given all the help it needs and patients should be able to access natural non-invasive complementary therapies with help and guidance from their doctor.

The debate will continue as to why therapies such as Homeopathy or Healing work, but in the meantime, let"s not ignore the fact that they do. Research has shown remarkable results, (out of 191 randomized controlled studies of healing for example, 124 showed significant effects, ) and the anecdotal evidence is overwhelming!

Regardless of why therapies such as Healing appear to work, if they can have such a positive impact on patients, and ultimately reduce pressure on the NHS, why aren"t Professor Born and his colleagues encouraging their use instead of dismissing them?

May 2007