Your doctor may be able to refer you to a practitioner. Or, determine if there is a professional organization for practitioners of the therapy in which you are interested. If there is, obtain a list of their members. Several of the resources listed below can help you find out about professional organizations. Inquire about the background and training of the practitioner.
Some states require licensing of practitioners, such as naturopaths and acupuncturists.
Find out if the practitioner has the credentials to practice the treatment. Use Reasonable Caution There might be little or no documented evidence from clinical studies of the full effects of these therapies. Before you pursue any form of complementary or alternative medicine, let your doctor know what you want to do so you can be sure the new therapy does not adversely affect or interfere with any of your current treatments. For example, large doses of antioxidants might make radiation therapy less effective. Together, if appropriate, you can incorporate the therapy into your treatment plan.