Conventional Medicine

As practiced by holders of M.D. (medical doctor) or D.O. (doctor of osteopathy) degrees and by their allied health professionals (physical therapists, psychologists, and registered nurses). Some health care providers practice both conventional medicine and CAM.  

Complementary & Alternative Medicine

A group of diverse medical and health care systems, practices, and products that are not presently considered to be part of conventional medicine.  

Complementary = used with Conventional Medicine
Alternative = used in place of Conventinal Medicine

As proven safe and effective, Complementary and Alternative Medicines become Conventional Medicine.