The lack of product quality and consistency and the absence of compelling data on the safety and efficacy of most CAM and TM approaches present major challenges to any effort to opti- mize the distribution of precious health resources. These diffi- culties also pose opportunities for research. Other formidable challenges include the variability in training, credentialing, and licensing CAM and TM practitioners. Increasingly, efforts are being made in several countries to regulate both products and practitioners. Ultimately, stringent controls on training, prac- tices, and products must be complemented by rigorous research to ascertain which approaches are safe and effective— and for which indications. The global use and potential effect of CAM and.
