Why should physicians discuss Complementary and Alternative Medicine therapies with their patients?
Rheumatic diseases are confusing to both the medical community and lay public. CAM remedies often return to the patient a sense of understanding, responsibility, and hope. Also, discussing these alternative means of controlling their symptoms provides patients a sense of self-involvement in their care and thus ensures better compliance. Unfortunately, not all CAM therapies are safe or effective, and this warrants discussion with healthcare providers. Additionally, expenditures on CAM remedies can divert scarce healthcare resources.
