Complementary has evolved into Integrative

          The word "complementary" means combining two or more different things in such a way as to enhance or emphasize each other's qualities. In terms of complementary medicine, the term is a better description of what now-credible modalities have to offer in the health care world.

          Massage, Reiki, reflexology, acupressure and acupuncture, and in some instances, aromatherapy, herbal remedies and essential oils, are now considered complementary to a physician's care.

          The first contributions of the aforementioned complementary therapies were found in the "alternative" world, which, thankfully, has gone through an evolution into the complementary era.  This evolution includes formidable modalities into a bigger and better domain -- integrative medicine. This is a realm where no treatment is a last alternative.

          There are integrative medicine specialists, holding medical degrees, who can provide a tailored treatment program to one's individual needs. When these complementary modalities become part of the standard of care of a hospitalized patient or those suffering from a devastating illness, better results ensue.

          This same let's-all-contribute attitude has been effective in Mexico, Germany, Australia and England, to name a few. In England, Reiki is now part of the standard of care in their national health care coverage in every district. What a concept.

          The integrative approach involving the potentially useful qualities of  Western and Eastern referrals combined into a comprehensive plan of treatment. Whatever works and "do no harm" can coincide in the same universe.

          The federal government and numerous other entities use the CAM acronym of Complementary and Alternative Medicine. The term is often found in grants for research. To research grants about CAM modalities, go to www.clinicaltrials.gov and use a keyword of a modality such as Reiki.

          To experience first-hand, the Holistic Health Services department at SwedishAmerican Hospital offers numerous modalities as part of their care. There are reportedly more than 100 hospitals using this philosophy in various departments. The Caring Place cancer treatment center in Las Vegas offers complementary services and all are free.

          Having these modalities covered by insurance is the next frontier. Inroads have been made in the areas of discretionary health care spending in tax-free reimbursement. There also has been co-billing along with traditional medical and psychiatric services. Blue Cross Blue Shield has been a proponent of change. The idea is holistic approaches often cost less and are more effective with few adverse reactions. Finding alternatives to expensive drugs and surgeries and other procedures would cut costs insurance companies incur.

          During my 25-year tenure as a Reiki Master and also being certified in Shiatsu for the same length of time, I have seen what were once alternative ideas become part of the selection of choices people need to fight illness, trauma and disease.

          If complementary therapies didn't work, why would so many people be using them?

          For more information about Reiki, see www.reikilightenergy.com or www.reikienergyinternational.org.