A model of cooperation between complementary and allopathic medicine in a primary care setting.

This paper describes an acupuncture and osteopathy service offered free of charge to patients at a National Health Service general practice. The background to the setting up of this service, its organization, funding, aims and philosophy, and the ethical and legal implications for the general practitioners whose patients are treated by complementary therapists are discussed. This service provides a model of cooperation between allopathic and complementary medicine in a primary care setting and could be copied elsewhere.