Although use of alternative therapies in the United States is widespread and growing, little is known about the malpractice experience of practitioners who deliver these therapies or about the legal principles that govern the relationship between conventional and alternative medicine. Using data from malpractice insurers, the author analyzed the claims experience of chiropractors, massage therapists, and acupuncturists. They found that claims against practitioners occurred less frequently and typically involved injury that was less severe than claims against physicians.

Practitioners who may be concerned about their own exposure to liability for referral of patients for alternative treatments can draw some comfort from these findings. However, liability for referral is possible in certain situations and should be taken seriously.

(Studdert D et al . Medical malpractice implications of alternative medicine. JAMA 1998; 280(18)):1610-1615)