Chinese medicine has a rich history that has only been made more complex by its integration with ‘Western’ biomedicine. Legitimization of Chinese medicine in biomedicine-dominated health systems, such as that in Hong Kong, has posed significant issues. This anthology of articles explores relevant social issues related to various Chinese medicine treatments, including acupuncture and medicinal oils, as well as insight into practitioner licensing and public perception.
Each chapter tackles a topic related to the complicated process of legitimizing knowledge and power within a specific social and historical context. Written by professors and researchers with extensive knowledge of Chinese medicine, government regulation, and sociology, this collection provides an overview of the challenges and current social context of Chinese medicine that affect students and practitioners of Chinese medicine, health and para-health biomedical professionals, and patients alike.
Traditional Chinese Medicine is the first book in the Mediated Health Series, which focuses on the effects of media, lifestyle, doctor-patient communication, and the economy on health and aims to help inform medical decisions and enhance the wellbeing of individuals.
Kara Chan is a professor at the School of Communication, Hong Kong Baptist University and a prominent researcher in the fields of communication, advertising, sociology, and health. She has published eight books, and has authored numerous other research articles and book chapters.
Dong Dong is research assistant professor at the Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong. She is currently a consultant to several patient-focused organizations in China.
