Call for health professionals to be more educated on complementary medicines

Complementary Medicines would continue to play a major role in health care in Australia and health professionals needed more knowledge to ensure the most effective treatment for patients, according to Director of the Australian Centre for Complementary Medicine (ACCMER), Professor Stephen Myers.

Prof Myers, who holds a medical degree, a doctorate in clinical pharmacology and is a qualified naturopath, said Australian consumers were driving a new approach to healthcare that would feature an integration of conventional and complementary medicines.

“Around 50% of Australians use complementary medicines (CMs). Health professionals need to be able to evaluate and respond to the needs and enquiries of patients in relation to complementary medicines. There is a growing evidence-base, developing through scientific research, that many CM products and therapies offer effective results, “ Prof Myers said.

In response to this need for knowledge, ACCMER has developed a new university course specifically designed for doctors, nurses, pharmacists and suitably qualified health professionals who want to improve their knowledge and understanding of evidence-based complementary medicine and how to apply this in their professional practice. The course is case-based and focused on the kinds of clinical queries and concerns that are part of everyday professional practice.

The Graduate Certificate in Evidence-based Complementary Medicine is offered part time through external online study. Courses will cover the latest evidence, best sources of information, evaluation of research, CM safety and interactions, as well as current treatments in cardiovascular, central nervous system and respiratory and gastrointestinal conditions. Courses are taught by educators with training in both pharmacy and complementary medicine.

ACCMER is a joint venture of The University of Queensland and Southern Cross University. For more information visit www.accmer.edu.au , telephone (07) 3840 6120 or email accmer@uq.edu.au .

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT FACULTY COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER MARLENE MCKENDRY ON 3346 4713 OR 0401 996847.