ABSTRACT
In the intervening period since the publication of the first edition of The Sociology of the Health Service (Gabe et al. 1991) numerous changes have occurred to the shape and practice of medical care in Britain. Arguably, one of the most significant is the proliferation and subsequent management of complementary and alternative therapies, knowledges and professions. For the purposes of this chapter these have been collectively, although not unproblematically, grouped under the heading of ‘non-orthodox’ care. This chapter will assess the significance of the burgeoning demand for, and everincreasing supply of, ‘non-orthodox’ care for health care practice and specifically for the configuration of the health service in Britain.
