THE practice of alternative medicine has been a fact in this country for decades, growing in popularity as persons begin to embrace other forms of healing as a result of dissatisfaction with traditional medicine. In fact, medically affected persons have been known to pursue both forms simultaneously in their anxiety for quick healing. But what is alternative medicine?  My layman’s understanding is that it is about medical therapy that is unscientific and unorthodox in the eyes of the traditional medical profession. For example, herbalists and naturopathists fall within this category. That the practitioners of this branch of medicine have never really been accepted by the scientific branch in this country is a fact. Even the more established of the traditionalists have come in for scathing criticisms, for claiming competency in healing medical conditions. And with these practitioners now firmly a part of television, advising on conditions and remedies, even claiming success in cases of the dreaded HIV/AIDS, the criticisms from the traditionalists have heightened. It was said in no uncertain manner that the alternatives were making profound statements that were not supported by any scientific facts and that some of them were even charging high fees.
There is no doubt that traditional medicine has become popularised, and not only in Guyana, but across the globe as well. In fact, in Western societies this branch of medicine is now in many instances being combined with the scientific branch in the advancement of finding solutions for medical problems. And with good reason too. Here, it is no secret that sick persons, after being treated for lengthy periods by conventional medicine without success have had to resort to the alternative branch for further assistance. And scores have claimed success. Is it the manner in which these cases had been flaunted on television, at least by one such practitioner sometime ago, that have added to the controversy? Was it a case of trying desperately to convince the public as to the merits of alternative medicine? But, is it ethical?
Many of the certified practitioners of this type of medicine, have been exposed to  conventional studies and based on their television discussions do appear to know what they are about. I do believe that the combination of the two branches of medicine do give these practitioners an advantage in bringing relief to many patients, for some kind of conditions. There are some ailments that are beyond the remit of this branch, and ought to be referred to the appropriate section. I am aware that this is done, much to the credit of those who do so.
Thus, the recent passage of the Allied Health Professions Bill in parliament is not only timely but also necessary in regulating all those health professionals and services that offer service to the public. However, this bill has not made any reference to the herbalists and naturopathists. These were the two groups especially, for which this bill had been intended. One would hope that their status is regularised since their treatment is the most sought after by patients. As stated above, I do believe that there is a role for this category of health worker and that they must take their rightful place in promoting the health of the nation. They must also be subject to regulations and laws in the manner as their opposite colleagues are.