Medicine in Europe: Complementary medicine in Europe

TLDR

Complementary medicine is widely used across Europe, with popular modalities such as acupuncture, homeopathy, manual therapy, and herbal medicine; its popularity varies by country, regulation ranges from strict registration to near-unregulated practice, and European institutions are beginning to shape its development. The study aims to harmonise training and regulation of complementary medicine practitioners across Europe.

Abstract

Complementary or unconventional treatments are used by many doctors and other therapists throughout Europe. The major forms are acupuncture, homoeopathy, manual therapy or manipulation, and phytotherapy or herbal medicine. The relative popularity of therapies differs between countries, but public demand is strong and growing. Regulation of practitioners varies widely: in most countries only registered health professionals may practice, but in the United Kingdom practice is virtually unregulated. Germany and some Scandinavian countries have intermediate systems. Legal reforms are in progress in the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. European institutions are starting to influence the development of complementary medicine. Harmonisation of training and regulation of practitioners is the challenge for the future.