Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) refers to a range of therapies, treatments, and practices that are not considered part of conventional Western medicine. These practices aim to promote wellness, prevent illness, and treat various health conditions. In South Korea, CAM is deeply rooted in traditional Korean medicine and is often used alongside conventional medical treatments.
CAM Practices in South Korea
South Korea has a range of CAM practices available, including:
Traditional Korean Medicine
Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) is a system of medicine that uses traditional remedies, such as herbs, acupuncture, and moxibustion, to treat various health conditions. TKM is based on the principle of maintaining the body’s natural balance and treating the underlying causes of illness.
In South Korea, TKM is widely practiced and is formally recognized and regulated by the government. The Korean Medicine Association is the main professional organization for TKM practitioners in the country. Their website (https://www.koreanmedicine.or.kr/) provides information about TKM, a list of registered practitioners, and a search function to find a TKM practitioner in your area.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into the body at specific points. Acupuncture is believed to stimulate the body’s natural healing process and restore balance to the body’s energy.
In South Korea, acupuncture is widely practiced, and there are many registered acupuncture practitioners. The Korean Acupuncture and Moxibustion Society is the main professional organization for acupuncture practitioners in the country. Their website (http://www.ksam.or.kr/) provides information about acupuncture, a list of registered practitioners, and a search function to find an acupuncture practitioner in your area.
Chuna Manual Therapy
Chuna Manual Therapy is a type of manual therapy that involves the manipulation of the spine and joints to promote healing and relieve pain. Chuna Manual Therapy is based on the principle of maintaining the body’s natural balance and treating the underlying causes of illness.
In South Korea, Chuna Manual Therapy is widely practiced and is formally recognized and regulated by the government. The Korean Chuna Manual Medicine Association is the main professional organization for Chuna Manual Therapy practitioners in the country. Their website (http://www.kcmma.kr/) provides information about Chuna Manual Therapy, a list of registered practitioners, and a search function to find a Chuna Manual Therapy practitioner in your area.
Regulation of CAM in South Korea
In South Korea, CAM practices are formally recognized and regulated by the government. The Ministry of Health and Welfare is responsible for regulating CAM practices, including Traditional Korean Medicine, acupuncture, and Chuna Manual Therapy. Practitioners must meet certain educational and professional requirements to be registered.
Integration of CAM and Conventional Medicine
The South Korean healthcare system has a long history of integrating CAM and conventional medicine. Traditional Korean Medicine is often used alongside conventional medical treatments, and some hospitals and healthcare centers in the country offer TKM services alongside conventional medical treatments.
Additionally, some medical schools in South Korea now offer courses on CAM practices, which can help healthcare professionals understand and integrate these practices into their treatment plans.
Insurance Coverage for CAM
In South Korea, most CAM services are covered by the public healthcare system. However, some services may require a co-payment or additional fees. Private health insurance companies also offer coverage for CAM therapies, such as acupuncture and Chuna Manual Therapy.
Complementary and alternative medicine is deeply rooted in traditional Korean medicine and is widely practiced in South Korea. Traditional Korean Medicine, acupuncture, and Chuna Manual Therapy are formally recognized and regulated by the government, and most CAM services are covered by the public healthcare system.
The South Korean healthcare system has a long history of integrating CAM and conventional medicine, providing people with more options for wellness and treatment of health conditions. Additionally, some medical schools in South Korea now offer courses on CAM practices, which can help healthcare professionals understand and integrate these practices into their treatment plans. Overall, CAM is an important part of the healthcare landscape in South Korea, providing people with more options for their health and well-being.
