Alternative Medicine and Healthcare Delivery: A Narrative Review

Ibrahim Adekunle Oreagba () and Kazeem Adeola Oshikoya
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Ibrahim Adekunle Oreagba: University of Lagos
Kazeem Adeola Oshikoya: Lagos State University

Chapter Chapter 21 in Medical Entrepreneurship, 2023, pp 325-340 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract The global trend toward increased acceptability and use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs), across all age groups, is well documented in the literature. Consequently, further systematic evaluation and meta-analysis are necessary to evaluate the quality, efficacy, safety, and regulation of these range of therapies by combining all the available evidence in the literature. Furthermore, the role of CAM in healthcare delivery and its utilization in a digital age cannot be overemphasized. Evidence-based results would guide both patients willing to use CAMs and their providers in making an informed decision. This narrative review addressed the above points. There is subtle evidence supporting the quality, efficacy, and safety of CAM therapies and products; however, much of the evidence is inconsistent due to the varied CAM types and regulatory policies from country to country. More research is required in this field to further harness the gains of CAM therapies and products globally. CAM users and providers should exercise caution with the available therapies and products. Care should also be taken when consulting CAM therapies online.

Keywords: Complementary; Alternative; Herbal; Medicines; Quality; Efficacy; Safety; Regulation; Healthcare delivery (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:spr:sprchp:978-981-19-6696-5_21

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DOI: 10.1007/978-981-19-6696-5_21

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