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Using examples, describe the difference between alternative health therapies and complementary health therapies. - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 21 - 2016 - Paper 1
Question 21
Using examples, describe the difference between alternative health therapies and complementary health therapies.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Using examples, describe the difference between alternative health therapies and complementary health therapies. - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 21 - 2016 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe the difference between alternative health therapies and complementary health therapies
Answer
Alternative health therapies refer to medical treatments that are not part of the standard medical care, often used instead of conventional treatments. For example, an alternative therapy could be the use of herbal remedies as the primary treatment for a disease instead of conventional medications. In contrast, complementary health therapies are used alongside standard treatments. For instance, a patient undergoing chemotherapy might utilize acupuncture to help alleviate discomfort associated with cancer treatments. Thus, the main difference lies in the substitutive nature of alternative therapies versus the supportive role of complementary therapies.
Step 2
Provide examples of alternative and complementary health therapies
Answer
An example of an alternative therapy is homeopathy, where a patient opts to treat their condition solely with homeopathic remedies rather than conventional medicine. Conversely, an example of a complementary therapy is yoga, which can be practiced alongside conventional medical treatments to enhance physical and mental well-being.