Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) refers to a range of therapies, treatments, and practices that are not considered part of conventional Western medicine. These practices aim to promote wellness, prevent illness, and treat various health conditions. In Qatar, CAM is becoming increasingly popular and is often used alongside conventional medical treatments.
CAM Practices in Qatar
Qatar has a diverse range of CAM practices available, including:
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. It is believed to promote the flow of energy (known as “qi”) throughout the body and can help treat a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, anxiety, and digestive disorders.
In Qatar, acupuncture is widely practiced, and there are many registered practitioners. The Qatar Acupuncture Association (QAA) is the main professional organization for acupuncture practitioners in the country. Their website (https://www.qataracupuncture.com/) provides information about acupuncture, a list of registered practitioners, and a search function to find an acupuncture practitioner in your area.
Ayurveda
Ayurveda is a system of medicine that originated in India and involves the use of natural remedies, such as herbs, massage, and dietary changes, to treat various health conditions. Ayurveda is based on the principle of balancing the body’s doshas (energy) to achieve optimal health.
In Qatar, Ayurveda is becoming increasingly popular, and there are several Ayurvedic clinics and practitioners available. The Ayurvedic Association of Qatar is a professional organization for Ayurvedic practitioners in the country, and their website (https://www.ayurvedaqatar.org/) provides information about Ayurveda and a list of registered practitioners.
Herbal medicine
Herbal medicine involves the use of plant extracts and other natural substances to treat various health conditions. It is one of the oldest forms of medicine and has been used for centuries to promote wellness and treat illness.
In Qatar, there are many herbal medicine practitioners available, and the Qatar Herbal Medicine Association (QHMA) is the main professional organization for herbal medicine practitioners in the country. Their website (https://www.qhma.com/) provides information about herbal medicine, a list of registered practitioners, and a search function to find a herbal medicine practitioner in your area.
Traditional Arabic Medicine
Traditional Arabic Medicine (TAM) is a system of medicine that originated in the Middle East and involves the use of natural remedies, such as herbs, cupping, and dietary changes, to treat various health conditions. TAM is based on the principle of balancing the body’s humours (energy) to achieve optimal health.
In Qatar, TAM is widely practiced and is often used alongside conventional medical treatments. The Qatar Traditional Arabic Medicine Association (QTAMA) is the main professional organization for TAM practitioners in the country. Their website (https://www.qtama.qa/) provides information about TAM, a list of registered practitioners, and a search function to find a TAM practitioner in your area.
Regulation of CAM in Qatar
In Qatar, the regulation of CAM practices varies depending on the type of practice. Some CAM practices, such as acupuncture and herbal medicine, are recognized by the government and regulated by professional organizations. Other practices may not be formally recognized or regulated by the government.
Integration of CAM and Conventional Medicine
The Qatari healthcare system has a growing interest in integrating CAM and conventional medicine. Some hospitals and healthcare centers in the country offer CAM services alongside conventional medical treatments. Additionally, some medical schools in Qatar now offer courses on CAM practices, which can help healthcare professionals understand and integrate these practices into their treatment plans.
Insurance Coverage for CAM
In Qatar, most CAM services are not covered by the public healthcare system.