Australian Research Centre In Complementary And Integrative Medicine
Complementary and integrative medicine (CIM) is a healthcare approach that combines conventional medicine with complementary therapies. It includes a range of practices and products that are not considered part of conventional medicine, such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and massage therapy. The Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine (ARCCIM) is a leading academic research center that focuses on the integration of CIM into mainstream healthcare.
What Is ARCCIM?
The Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine (ARCCIM) is a research center located at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). It was established in 2003 and is funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC). The center's mission is to conduct high-quality research on complementary and integrative medicine and to promote the integration of these practices into mainstream healthcare.
ARCCIM's Research Focus
ARCCIM's research focuses on a wide range of CIM practices, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage therapy, and meditation. The center conducts both qualitative and quantitative research, including randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses. ARCCIM's research aims to provide evidence-based information on the safety, effectiveness, and cost-effectiveness of CIM practices.
ARCCIM's Achievements
Over the years, ARCCIM has made significant contributions to the field of CIM research. Some of its achievements include:
- Conducting the world's first systematic review of acupuncture for chronic pain
- Developing the first national framework for the evaluation of CIM
- Establishing the International Network for Integrative Mental Health (INIMH)
- Developing the first national guidelines for the safe use of herbal medicine
- Conducting a systematic review of the effectiveness of massage therapy for cancer patients
ARCCIM's Contribution To Mainstream Healthcare
ARCCIM's research has played a significant role in the integration of CIM into mainstream healthcare. Its research findings have been used to develop national guidelines, policies, and frameworks for the evaluation and safe use of CIM practices. ARCCIM's research has also helped to raise awareness among healthcare professionals about the benefits of CIM practices and their potential role in improving patient outcomes.
Conclusion
The Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine (ARCCIM) is a leading academic research center that focuses on the integration of complementary and integrative medicine (CIM) into mainstream healthcare. Its research aims to provide evidence-based information on the safety, effectiveness, and cost-effectiveness of CIM practices. ARCCIM's research has played a significant role in the integration of CIM into mainstream healthcare and has helped to raise awareness among healthcare professionals about the benefits of CIM practices.