What we know
Complementary medicine refers to medicines and therapies that are used alongside conventional medicine. Alternative medicine is used in place of conventional medical treatment. These may be brought together under the title of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM). The use of CM in Australia is considerable and increasing. Not all people discuss their use of CM with their doctor or health care professional. Evidence about the use, benefits, risks, safety and effectiveness of complementary medicine for older people receiving palliative care is lacking.