The journal of alternative and complementary medicine : research on paradigm, practice, and policy
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Introducing holism and complementary medicine into mainstream medical education provides many scientific, philosophical, and personal challenges. The growth of new knowledge always necessitates venturing into areas, which are, by definition, unknown, hence arise potential clashes of ideology, knowledge, evidence, interpretation, language, and personality. This paper outlines some of the experience and progress made at Monash University Victoria, Australia, in teaching this material in undergraduate medical education. ⋯ This presents challenges that are as much personal as they are intellectual. Areas of particular importance are the academic environment, language, diplomacy, style, relevance, and evidence. In this process, building relationships, collegiality, patience, objectivity, impartiality, and humor are helpful.