The Integration of Traditional Chinese Medicine in the United Kingdom: From A Regulatory Perspective

Abstract

Introduction The use of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is expanding world-wide, including in the UK and yet there is limited scientific evidence on its safety, quality and efficacy. This research aims to understand how TCM has developed in the UK, and to assesses the extent to which the regulatory system ensures that TCM therapies are safe, of good quality and effective, and that practitioners and premises meet adequate standards. Methods Primary data was gathered through 105 hours of participant observation in a TCM clinic, 38 interviews with TCM industry stakeholders, and 106 questionnaires collected from the TCM users. Secondary data was collected through literature review. Data was analysed using thematic analysis, actor-network theory (ANT), and responsive regulation. A framework was developed to assess the performance of TCM regulations. Results From the 1990s TCM has grown rapidly in the UK and the research found a network of six key stakeholders instrumental in this growth. 10 regulations are now in use focusing on safety, quality and efficacy of TCM products, practice, premises and practitioners. The impacts of regulations mostly relate to the use of herbal medicine; other areas such as standardising education or unifying registration criteria were less impacted. Conclusion TCM has undergone a process of modernisation and scientisation and through globalisation it has been reshaped by local contexts. In the UK, TCM became a part of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) as a result of the interplay between regulators and a network of key TCM stakeholders. Responsive regulation has been applied to TCM but it falls short of achieving its aim. The UK-TCM regulation is weak in controlling standardised practice and delivering effective inspection of products.