Therapeutic Pluralism

ISBN: 0415398533

Author: Broom, Alex

Condition: New

The profile of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has risen dramatically over the last decade and cancer patients represent its most prolific users. As a result, the NHS and UK cancer services are attempting to develop a wider range of therapeutic options for patients. Despite such developments, little is known about why cancer patients use CAM, its perceived benefits and the perspectives of the doctors and nurses involved.Drawing on extensive fieldwork in the UK, Therapeutic Pluralism includes over 120 interviews with cancer patients and professionals, plus innovative diary data which, for the first time, detail the experiences of CAM users. It gives a systematic analysis of issues such as:The development of patient preferences and influences on decision makingExpectations of CAM and interpretations of success in cancer treatmentThe nature and importance of evidence and effectiveness for patientsThe organisational dynamics involved in integrating CAM into the NHSPathways to CAM and the role of the InternetThe role of oncology clinicians in patients experiences of cancer and their use of CAMsTherapeutic Pluralism is essential reading for students and researchers of medical sociology, complementary and alternative medicine and cancer. It will also be useful to medical and health professionals, and policy-makers with an interest in complementary and alternative medicine.