A set of procedure codes for complementary and alternative medicine (CAM): The question was not if somebody would develop them, but who, and when.

In a move which may have a major, long-term impact on CAM payment and delivery, a U.S. patent (#5915241) was issued June 22, 1999, to New Mexico-based Alternative Link. The patent, issued to Jo Melinna Giannini, is entitled: "Method and System of Encoding and Processing Alternative Healthcare Provider Billing."

Giannini, whose product development has been followed in The Integrator for two years, contacted the newsletter with this breaking news. A feature in the August-September double issue will look at the implications of this patent for the emerging industry. This article serves as a heads-up to all those using CAM coding. An Alternative Link notice to the industry states that "several companies have mistakenly infringed upon specific rights granted by the U.S. patent." The letter urges "those who have developed CAM billing or coding information contact us." According to Alternative Link, the coded procedures include, but are not limited to, the following specialties: acupuncture, chiropractic, botanicals, holistic medicine, homeopathic medicines and homeopathy, massage therapy or bodywork, midwifery, naturopathy and nursing procedures...