WHO Key needs in increasing availability and affordability of TM/CAM

In developing countries TM can be comparatively inexpensive.

TM practitioners may be widely trusted and respected providers of health care, albeit not necessarily officially recognized.

In areas with poor access to allopathic medicine,fortunately, TM practitioners tend to be well established and well respected.

Key needs in increasing availability and affordability of TM/CAM at national and global levels:

• Identification of safest and most effective TM/CAM therapies and products (including: evidence that the therapy is effective; evidence that the therapy is safe; evidence that the therapy is cost-effective).
• Research into safe and effective TM/CAM treatment for diseases that represent the greatest burden, particularly for poorer populations.
• Recognition of role of TM practitioners in providing health care in developing countries.
• Optimized and upgraded skills of TM practitioners in developing countries.
• Indigenous TM knowledge protected and preserved.
• Sustainable cultivation of medicinal plants