March 21, 2005 – On their own initiative, students from different medical faculties in Quebec organized an “Information Congress” to meet and learn from professionals and students in alternative and complementary medicine (CAM). more about their practice.
This unprecedented event brought together 150 students and professionals on Saturday at the University of Sherbrooke, despite the student strike.
Two observations have brought out the need to hold this day: alternative approaches are increasingly popular and university training in the field of health is “devoid of any relevant information on these practices”, writes Louis-Philippe Hubert, student. in medicine in Sherbrooke and main organizer of the congress1.
Refusing to take a bias in favor of a particular approach, the organizing committee wishes above all to promote open-mindedness: “Alternative approaches have a common denominator with medicine: the improvement of human health”, can be read on the event website.
An opportunity for meetings and mutual understanding between future doctors and MAC professionals, the Congress gave rise to specific conferences on acupuncture, chiropractic, massage therapy and research in MAC. In addition, participants took part in three clinical cases focused on the concrete application of alternative approaches.
A popular event
According to Louis-Philippe Hubert, the enthusiasm aroused by the Congress was such that we will repeat the experience next year.
It must be said that this event was already a success even before taking place, having been awarded the “Envergure” honorary prize a few weeks ago. This prize is awarded annually by the University of Sherbrooke to the student project that stands out the most for its degree of complexity and its impact on society.
Martin LaSalle – PasseportSanté.net
1. For more information: http://congres.med.usherbrooke.ca/ [consulté le 21 mars 2005].
