Higher education in the 1990s is characterised by a pre-occupation with quality assurance. This book provides an examination of what that means for one academic specialism, continuing professional education (CPE). Based on research conducted in and around UK universities, the book explores the range of existing practice in CPE, and develops a broadly based strategy for practical action. It is argued that a framework for quality should evolve from an awareness of the complex character of CPE as a distinct subject area - solutions cannot simply be brought in, but must be...

Stepping back from the immediate demands of policy-making, Mainstreaming Complementary and Alternative Medicine allows a complex and informative picture to emerge of the different social forces at play in the integration of CAM with orthodox medicine. Complementing books that focus solely on practice, it will be relevant reading for all students following health studies or healthcare courses, for medical students and medical and healthcare professionals.

Drawing on comparative fieldwork in the UK, Pakistan and Australia, this book provides the first systematic assessment of pathways and access to CAM and how it is used in health practice and by individuals with cancer.

Giving fresh and invaluable insights into how differing health and societal structures influence the use complementary and alternative medicine, the book explores:

• the empirical, theoretical, and policy context for the study of CAM/TM and cancer
• the history and character of the eight support groups in which fieldwork took place in the UK,...

Drawing on comparative fieldwork in the UK, Pakistan and Australia, this book provides the first systematic assessment of pathways and access to CAM and how it is used in health practice and by individuals with cancer.

Giving fresh and invaluable insights into how differing health and societal structures influence the use complementary and alternative medicine, the book explores:

• the empirical, theoretical, and policy context for the study of CAM/TM and cancer
• the history and character of the eight support groups in which fieldwork took place in the UK,...

This book explores the historical, social, political and cultural facets of integration between complementary and alternative medicine and nursing/midwifery. It examines the ever-expanding integration in relation to:

• the role and conceptualization of the patient
• the role and responsibilities of different professional healthcare providers (nurses, midwives, alternative therapists, etc)
• the future provision and approach of nursing and midwifery practice
• the challenges and opportunities currently facing healthcare systems as a result of integration....

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...