Madam, - Reading Brian Hughes's article on alternative medicine (Head2Head, March 12th) I wondered if he had ever tried it. I am a long-time believer in alternative medicine and have used it for years. I cannot remember the last time I took an antibiotic and my doctor has said he will "never make any money out of me". A joke, but true.
At different times I have successfully used Irish herbs, Chinese herbs, osteopathy and acupuncture. During labour I had acupuncture, which was effective - and I have a very low pain threshold. I have also found acupuncture helpful during times of stress or sleeplessness.
I agree with Ruth Cloherty that alternative therapies can fill gaps in the health service and they should be offered under the public system. The VHI's plan B allows only €13 against a visit to a practitioner of alternative medicine, with a maximum of 12 visits in a year.
Dr Hughes is entitled to his view but the opinions of those who have tried alternative medicine and found it to work should be considered. - Yours, etc,
IRENE STEVENSON, Rathmore Park, Dublin 5.