The long awaited report on Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) produced for the Government by the House of Lords Select Committee on Science and Technology finally rolled off the production line on Tuesday, 28^th November.

The reaction of the British Complementary Medicine Association was positive and immediate. Paula Marie, BCMA Acting Vice-Chairman, hailed the report as "A commendable overview of the CAM scene which the BCMA fully endorses. Complementary Medicine has awaited its findings with bated breath. Considering the preponderance of orthodox medical experts on the Select Committee the report is fair and unbiased in its recommendations. It clearly points the way forward for the whole of CAM and it makes many constructive proposals for the integration of Complementary Medicine in the Nation’s Healthcare system."

In essence it raises significant questions such as the protection of the public and the importance of the patient. The need for realistic self-regulation, adequate public information sources and much more research. Better collaboration between doctors and CAM therapists. Special emphasis on education and training standards. All issues which the BCMA has long been championing.

As the leading multi-therapy umbrella body for Complementary Medicine in the UK, the BCMA anticipates seeing the Select Committee’s recommendations bear fruit and looks forward to working closely with the Government and the Healthcare sector to secure a successful outcome