Practising Non-Evidence-Based Medicine: Ethical Issues in the Practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Canada

Abstract

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is non-evidence-based medicine. The purpose of this thesis is to identify and address some potential TCM ethical issues that are particularly related to non-evidence-based medicine. In applying Beauchamp and Childress’s four principles approach (principlism), I identify three potential ethical issues in the practice of TCM in Canada. The first issue pertains to enabling TCM patients to make the informed decision concerning the use of TCM. The second issue relates to the obligation of TCM practitioners to distinguish shams from effective TCM treatments. The third issue concerns equal access to TCM care in the context of the Canada Health Act. After identifying each issue, I put forward suggestions to address it.