Non-Traditional Healthcare from a Cost Perspective

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Table of Contents

Introduction
Medical Marijuana as a form of Non-traditional Healthcare
Other Forms of Non-traditional Healthcare
Conclusion
References

Introduction

Medical marijuana encompasses the therapeutic use of cannabis and cannabis-derived products like cannabidiol oil. Chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy are medical problems treated by medicinal marijuana. Non-traditional approaches to healthcare encompass treatment modalities that are not part of Western medicine practices. Alternative medicine, complementary medicine, integrative medicine, and holistic medicine are all included in these practices. These approaches include acupuncture, massage therapy, tai chi, yoga, naturopathy, Chinese medicine, herbal medicine, body movement therapies, dietary supplements, electromagnetic therapy, hypnosis, biofeedback, and meditation. Providing a less expensive option to conventional prescription medications, medicinal marijuana and other non-traditional treatments can improve patient outcomes and lower healthcare expenditures.

Medical Marijuana as a form of Non-traditional Healthcare

Medicinal marijuana usage has a long history, with records indicating it was used in ancient Chinese and Indian societies. Medical marijuana’s popularity in the United States peaked in the late 19th and early 20th centuries but gradually dropped with the introduction of safer, synthetic alternatives (Wen et al., 2018). Nevertheless, there has recently been a renaissance in support for Medical marijuana, and the practice has been legalized in several states. By lowering total costs for patients and the healthcare system, the legalization and widespread use of medical marijuana as a treatment option can transform the healthcare sector. This is due to its affordability and capacity to replace conventional, pricey prescription medications. Chronic pain, nausea, vomiting, eating disorders, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and other medical diseases are among those treated using medicinal marijuana. Moreover, it has been discovered to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective actions, making it a potentially useful therapeutic tool for many disorders.

The high expense of conventional Western medical care makes medicinal marijuana a potentially attractive alternative for those with chronic medical issues. It may be affordable for those with inadequate health insurance coverage (Kinyungu et al., 2022). However, the price of Medical Marijuana varies considerably based on several criteria, including region, the clinic providing the service, and the strain of marijuana utilized. It has promising applications but is not without risks and restrictions. Its psychotropic properties and influence on mental health are only two possible concerns. It is challenging for healthcare practitioners to suggest a drug to their patients and for patients to get access to the drug due to the lack of clarity in the regulatory and legislative framework.

Other Forms of Non-traditional Healthcare

There are many forms of non-traditional healthcare practices aimed at alleviating diseases. Traditional Chinese medicine includes acupuncture, strategically inserting tiny needles into the skin to increase blood flow and improve healing (Kelly & Willis, 2019). Acupuncture is predicated on the idea that obstructions in the body’s energy flow are to blame for various health problems. The stimulation may break these blockages of specific acupuncture sites. Compared to many contemporary Western medical interventions, acupuncture is often seen as a more affordable option, particularly for those who lack insurance or inadequate coverage. Acupuncture is safe and beneficial for many people. It may be used alone or in conjunction with conventional medicine to treat various health issues, from chronic pain to depression and anxiety.

Homeopathy is a method of medicine that emerged in Germany. It implies that a chemical that generates signs in a healthy individual can be used in slightly different forms to treat identical complaints in an individual who is unwell (Peychev et al., 2018). Homeopathic medicines are considerably diluted and are supposed to boost the body’s inherent healing mechanisms. Homeopathic medicines may be a good option for individuals who cannot afford comprehensive coverage since they cost less than many conventional Western medical procedures. However, homeopathic medicines are only supported by little research, and some experts even call it a placebo. It suggests that the good effects of homeopathy may be the consequence of the placebo effect, in which the patient’s expectation of a beneficial outcome is sufficient to bring about that outcome regardless of the actual effectiveness of the therapy. Moreover, homeopathic treatments may have unwanted side effects or difficulties if administered improperly or without the guidance of a trained professional.

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian medical practice predicated on the idea that a person’s physical, mental, and spiritual well-being are all interconnected. It is a system of alternative medicine that emphasizes prevention over cure and uses techniques like massage, acupuncture, and yoga to achieve this goal (Rao, 2018). Ayurvedic therapies are typically seen as more affordable than conventional Western medical care. Ayurveda may not be beneficial for all people or diseases, and there is minimal research to back up its effectiveness.

Natural therapies, including healthy eating, regular exercise, and medicinal plants, are the focus of naturopathic medicine. With naturopathy, the practitioner recognizes the body’s innate capacity to heal and works to alleviate any symptoms that may hinder the body’s natural recovery (Pizzorno & Murray, 2020). Comparatively inexpensive when compared to conventional Western medical care, naturopathic therapies are often regarded as a viable alternative. Some experts perceive naturopathy may not be helpful for all people or conditions, and there is a lack of empirical data to support the efficacy of naturopathic treatments.

The central nervous system plays a significant part in the healing process, which is why chiropractic care is built on the premise that the body can cure itself. Chiropractors specialize in adjusting the spine’s position to alleviate pain and restore mobility (Iben et al., 2019). In addition, they could use other strategies, such as massage, stretches, and physical activity, to boost recovery. The usage of chronic pain drugs may be avoided, and these alternative treatment methods may lessen the need for invasive and costly operations. Patients who have had chiropractic treatment report an increase in their general sense of health and well-being.

The osteopathic medical approach considers the patient in its entirety and emphasizes the interdependence of the many bodily systems. Osteopathic doctors increase the blood flow and lymph, decrease inflammation, and hasten the healing process by manipulating, stretching, and massaging their patients (Bagagiolo et al., 2022). It is an alternative to traditional medicine, emphasizing noninvasive techniques like massage, flexibility, and physical manipulation to speed recovery and enhance function. By focusing on the underlying causes of pain and dysfunction, osteopathic therapy can potentially lessen the reliance on costly and sometimes harmful pain drugs. Osteopathic medicine has the potential to save patients money compared to traditional medical treatments, especially for orthopedic discomfort or pain.

Massage therapy includes the physical movement of soft tissues, such as muscles, connective tissues, and tendons. It may decrease pain and tension, increase flexibility and range of motion, alleviate stress, enhance circulation, and induce relaxation (Salvo, 2022). In terms of cost-benefit, massage therapy may be a more cost-effective alternative to standard medical treatments for certain illnesses, notably musculoskeletal pain and discomfort. Massage treatment may assist in preventing the need for costly and frequently intrusive procedures, such as surgery, and can help avoid chronic pain drug usage.

Developed initially as a kind of Chinese martial art, Tai Chi is now more often practiced as a form of moderate exercise and meditation. It has been called “moving meditation” due to the emphasis on slow, flowing movements accompanied by deep breathing (Huang et al., 2021). A person’s physical and mental health, as well as their sense of well-being, may all benefit from practicing Tai Chi. Tai Chi has positively affected psychological and physical well-being with relatively limited resource availability. In addition to enhancing the quality of life and well-being, consistent Tai Chi practice may aid in reducing the need for costly medical treatments like physical therapy or medicine.

Yoga has recently gained popularity as a complementary and alternative medicine modality. It is a set of techniques that aim to improve one’s health and well-being using physical body position, controlled breathing, and contemplation (Gothe et al., 2019). The positive effects on physical and mental health can make it a worthwhile investment. A yoga mat is all needed for the practice, and an individual can find classes at many community organizations and parks for little to no money. Regular yoga practice improves health and well-being but also helps reduce the need for more intensive and expensive medical procedures.

Dietary supplements promote general health by supplying nutrients otherwise lacking in the typical Western diet. When compared to the expense of traditional medical treatment, nutritional supplements could be a more affordable way to promote well-being and combat sickness (Dwyer et al., 2018). But it’s important to remember that not all dietary supplements are beneficial or healthy; some might even be hazardous if taken in excess or combined with certain medications. The cost of nutritional supplements varies widely from product to product and vendor to vendor. Due to a lack of oversight in the supplement business and the high price of certain supplements, consumers may question their safety and efficacy.

Utilizing plants or their extracts for medicinal reasons is known as herbal medicine or phytotherapy. Herbal medicine is a complementary medicine used to treat various diseases for ages (Zahn et al., 2019). Remarkably when evaluated against the expense of traditional medical care, herbal medicine may be a fiscally responsible strategy to boost wellness and forestall illness. A patient may get herbs at various health food shops or cultivate them at home for a fraction of the cost of traditional medicine. Herbal remedies may be purchased without a hospital appointment or prescription, reducing costs and time.

Electromagnetic therapy is a complementary medicine technique that uses reduced magnetic waves to treat various illnesses. Because it boosts cellular energy generation, the treatment is thought to alleviate inflammation, increase blood flow, and speed recovery (Elshiwi et al., 2019). Electromagnetic treatment might be costly compared to other complementary and alternative health options. However, the supporters of electromagnetic treatment say the potential health advantages justify the therapy’s expense, particularly for people whose chronic diseases have not responded to standard medical care.

Hypnosis is an alternative medicine that uses the capacity for suggestion and imagery to aid patients in overcoming ingrained negative patterns of thinking and behaving. Panic, tension, pain, and insomnia are just some ailments that have been shown to respond to hypnosis (Thompson et al., 2019). It allows the patient to tap into their inner self to alter destructive thinking and behavior patterns. When it comes to treating psychological or behavioral health issues, hypnosis might be a more affordable and efficient option than conventional medical care.

The ancient meditation technique has been used for many years as a supplemental and alternative therapy. There is a widespread belief that it may benefit one’s health and happiness in several ways (Saeed et al., 2019). Because it can be done anywhere at no expense and may have profound effects on one’s mental and physical well-being, meditation can be an exceedingly economical approach to achieving these goals. Directed meditations, video tutorials, and even applications may all be found for free online to help anybody interested in studying meditation get started.

Biofeedback is a non-traditional medical practice involving electrical devices to track and transmit data about bodily processes, including pulse rate, body temperature, and muscular tension. It is used to raise awareness of and educate control over the complex physical reactions to stress; this, in turn, may help decrease stress and enhance both physical and psychological well-being (Kondo et al., 2019). Biofeedback may be relatively expensive due to the need for specific equipment and the expertise of trained professionals. Those who advocate for biofeedback, however, say that the therapy’s advantages, particularly for those with chronic health disorders that cannot be adequately addressed by traditional medication, much exceed its costs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, some people may benefit from non-conventional approaches to healthcare, such as chiropractic, osteopathic medicine, massage, Tai chi, yoga, nutritional supplements, herbal medicine, electromagnetic therapy, hypnosis, meditation, and biofeedback. Yoga and meditation, for example, may have a significant positive impact on healthcare costs, although biofeedback can be fairly expensive. When deciding on a kind of alternative medicine, it is crucial to think about how much it will cost and to talk to a doctor about whether or not it will be appropriate for the patient’s condition. It is essential to weigh the cost and possible dangers and side effects. However, non-traditional aspects of health coverage can provide efficient and cost-effective alternatives to conventional medical treatments for some people.

References

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Dwyer, J., Coates, P., & Smith, M. (2018). Dietary supplements: Regulatory challenges and research resources. Nutrients, 10(1), 41. Web.

Elshiwi, A. M., Hamada, H. A., Mosaad, D., Ragab, I. M. A., Koura, G. M., & Alrawaili, S. M. (2019). Effect of pulsed electromagnetic field on nonspecific low back pain patients: A randomized controlled trial. Brazilian Journal of Physical Therapy, 23(3), 244–249. Web.

Gothe, N. P., Khan, I., Hayes, J., Erlenbach, E., & Damoiseaux, J. S. (2019). Yoga effects on brain health: A systematic review of the current literature. Brain Plasticity, 5(1), 105–122. Web.

Huang, J., Wang, D., & Wang, J. (2021). Clinical evidence of tai chi exercise prescriptions: A systematic review. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Web.

Iben, A., Lise, H., & Charlotte, L.-Y. (2019). Chiropractic maintenance care – what’s new? A systematic review of the literature. Chiropractic & Manual Therapies, 27(1). Web.

Kelly, R. B., & Willis, J. (2019). Acupuncture for pain. American Family Physician, 100(2), 89–96. Web.

Kinyungu, N. M., Gikungi, J., & Davson, A. (2022). Medical marijuana efficacy: A survey. Open Journal of Anesthesiology, 12(03), 91–98. Web.

Kondo, K., Noonan, K. M., Freeman, M., Ayers, C., Morasco, B. J., & Kansagara, D. (2019). Efficacy of biofeedback for medical conditions: An evidence map. Journal of General Internal Medicine, 34(12), 2883–2893. Web.

Peychev, Z., Mateva, N., Peycheva, S., Kirkova, A., Kilova, K., & Yaneva, A. (2018). Creating a mobile application model as part of a surveillance information system for chronically ill patients treated with homeopathy. Knowledge International Journal, 22(5), 1185–1188. Web.

Pizzorno, J. E., & Murray, M. T. (2020). Textbook of natural medicine. Elsevier Health Sciences.

Rao, R. V. (2018). Ayurveda and the science of aging. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, 9(3), 225–232. Web.

Saeed, S. A., Cunningham, K., & Bloch, R. M. (2019). Depression and anxiety disorders: Benefits of exercise, yoga, and meditation. American Family Physician, 99(10), 620–627. Web.

Salvo, S. G. (2022). Massage therapy: Principles and practice (7th ed.). Elsevier Health Sciences.

Thompson, T., Terhune, D. B., Oram, C., Sharangparni, J., Rouf, R., Solmi, M., Veronese, N., & Stubbs, B. (2019). The effectiveness of hypnosis for pain relief: A systematic review and meta-analysis of 85 controlled experimental trials. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 99, 298–310. Web.

Wen, H., Hockenberry, J. M., & Druss, B. G. (2018). The effect of medical marijuana laws on marijuana-related attitude and perception among US adolescents and young adults. Prevention Science, 20(2), 215–223. Web.

Zahn, R., Perry, N., Perry, E., & Mukaetova-Ladinska, E. B. (2019). Use of herbal medicines: Pilot survey of UK users’ views. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 44, 83–90. Web.

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