This approach places at its centre the active engagement and involvement of the patient. These ways tend to be less distressing for patients, have fewer side effects and are sometimes less costly than the latest drug and surgical interventions. To my mind, the most significant change has been the growing acceptance by sections of the orthodox medical and caring community of this approach - which combines the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of healing. It is a tremendous tribute to everyone here that there is a growing acknowledgement of this more rounded approach and we need to continue to build on this achievement. One of the most crucial areas that will assist us in doing so is that of Regulation.
Regulation is one of the major objectives identified in the discussion document recommendations.
I was delighted to play a part in the campaign for the statutory regulation of osteopathy which has shown what can be achieved with a focus on the needs of patients. I was also very pleased to see during the consultation process undertaken in preparing the Discussion Document that there was considerable enthusiasm and willingness to pursue high standards of training, regulation and clinical practice within the different alternative and complementary medicine professions. This is very reassuring. However, further progress needs to be made in regulation by some therapies. People need to feel confident that the treatment they receive from any complementary practitioner will be safe.