They did and still do a good job in helping their fellow people in taking away pain, diagnosing ailments and determining problem areas in bodies. I am someone who has some ability in this area. The methods of spiritual healing is not new. Shamans, medicine men and women have been doing this since a long time already. There are many ways in which healers of the mind can work.
Some healers only use their mind, their spirit to do their work.
Others use assisting means like candles, oils or crystals. Spiritual healers use different means to examine their 'patients' than regular medical practicioners. I do not use little lights and mirrors to look into ears and throats. For me the aura of a person and the general information pattern that the body sends out is more important and more clear to read. I can go into a body or body part to examine it from the inside, like a shoulder.