Development of ethical rules for boundaries of touch in complementary medicine – outcomes of a Delphi process

Abstract

The practice of complementary medicine (CAM) often involves touch. The unique philosophy of many CAM therapies, and the setting in which treatments are provided create a therapeutic space which may be less clearly defined than in conventional settings - a space in which the boundaries between professional touch and personal/intimate touch may become easily obscured. Thus, complementary therapists need clear definitions and firm boundaries in order to maintain therapeutic efficacy and commitment. The aim of the process described in this article, was to develop ethical guidelines for boundaries of touch that will promote the safety and protection of the public which use CAM. Through a modified Delphi process, a diverse group of CAM practitioners, physicians, ethicists, legal consultants, health policy specialists, and representatives from the public, developed Ethical Rules for Boundaries of Touch in CAM. These guidelines may be implemented in ethical codes of professional CAM organizations, and also serve as a foundation for curriculums in ethics in CAM schools.