Office of International Health Research (OIHR)
What We Do
NCCAM is pursuing three goals related to international research:
- Goal 1: Advance understanding of traditional/indigenous medical systems through international collaborative studies.
- Goal 2: Contribute to the preservation of irreplaceable and valuable traditional/ indigenous CAM knowledge and resources.
- Goal 3: Enhance understanding of how safe and effective CAM interventions are integrated with non-CAM interventions abroad and in the United States.
(From Expanding Horizons of Health Care Strategic Plan 2005-2009.)
In support of these goals, NCCAM's Office of International Health Research (OIHR) carries out a number of activities:
- Develops program initiatives to advance the understanding of traditional medical systems and CAM medical practices with the potential to benefit populations overseas and in the U.S.
- Facilitates establishment of international research collaborations and research training programs to assist institutions and researchers in building capacity and carrying out important research involving CAM practices and traditional medical systems.
- Serves as a resource for information on international CAM policies and activities for NCCAM staff and constituents with an interest in foreign research.
- Represents NCCAM in international forums.
