Many of these are already working with their GPs and becoming acknowledged not only as part of the healing business but also as part of the community. Death is not something to fear - it is a natural progression from one state to another. Many complementary therapists can help those close to dying to accept their situation. Similarly a more constructive view of death and dying generally will remove the pressure on health service providers to maintain life when all, at heart, admit that there is none. The potential savings due to such a change of attitude are huge.
Complementary therapy can do much to remove the current fear of death.
The medical profession will generally agree that our bodies have tremendous healing capacities and that the love of the patient themselves and their supporting friends, relatives and carers can do much to bring about a speedy and full recovery. The recent increase in availability and acceptance of Complementary Therapy, together with its underlying philosophy provide local and health service authorities with an opportunity to consider both the full implications of Agenda 21 and to find solutions to their growing financial pressures. A service evaluation of the first year of an outpatient service in a local district General Hospital, Janet Richardson, The Lewisham Hospital NHS Trust. Keith is now a teacher of Reiki Natural Healing. He is a member of the Social Well-being Group of the Northamptonshire Environmental Forum.