Why is there a need for an institute of complementary medicine?

• Up to two thirds of Australians use some form of complementary medicine each year and the industry turnover in Australia alone is estimated at $1.5 to $2.5 billion per annum.


• While Australia has one of the highest levels of use of complementary medicine per capita in developed nations, it has one of the lowest investments in related research.


• There is growing evidence that complementary medicine can make a significant, cost-effective contribution to public health in chronic disease management. However overall acceptance of complementary medicine by conventional medicine is variable and evidence based studies, including clinical trials, are necessary to strengthen acceptance and integration of proven therapies into the health care system.


• Research capacity in the field within Australia is of high quality but will require ongoing support to ensure sustainable critical mass, strategic coordination, collaboration and priority setting.