What distinguishes alternative healthcare from complementary healthcare?

Alternative healthcare is characterized by its use as a primary approach to health and wellness, often replacing conventional medical treatments. This approach focuses on using methods that may include herbal remedies, acupuncture, homeopathy, and other non-traditional practices. In contrast, complementary healthcare is designed to work alongside conventional medicine, enhancing and supporting traditional treatments rather than serving as a standalone solution.

When considering the distinction, it is essential to recognize that alternative healthcare is utilized instead of conventional medicine, as practitioners and patients may choose these approaches for philosophical reasons, personal preferences, or a desire for greater holistic care. This type of care often operates outside established Western medical frameworks, favoring naturalistic and often individualized forms of treatment that align with the patient's beliefs and values.

In summary, the defining characteristic of alternative healthcare is that it serves as a substitute for conventional medical approaches, aligning with a more holistic philosophy of health that prioritizes natural therapies over traditional medical interventions.