Alternative Medicine

Wanted to make a comment about this, as several things came up in regards to this. The term - alternative medicine - is basically in addition to surgery, radiation, and chemo - i.e., standard medical treatments - what other things like acupunturist, massage, etc. can help in cancer treatment. A research grant was given to some doctors at the cancer center I go to to understand this better and develop guidelines that doctors can use. The first step in the study is get a better idea of what patients think about these things. I was interviewed for this. No results yet.

At yoga class I was talking about the study and a patient who goes to another clinic said this approach was integrated into her chemo sessions. An acupunturist and naturopath come in while she having her infusion. This is covered by her insurance. Then someone comes by for imagery work, which is provided by the center. Massage is an additional cost. Exercise and spirituality are not offered in any way. I thought, though, this was a good approach.