To the Editor.—
The remarks made by John P. Callan, MD (241:1156, 1979), in his editorial "Holistic Health or Holistic Hoax?" are certain to provoke a landslide of reactions. Much of this reaction will likely be from representatives of specific holistic associations taking exception with statements regarding their organizations. While this information is valuable, I think there are three general points that beg discussion in light of Dr Callan's comments, namely, the cost of health care, the participation of the patient in health care, and the changing nature of the patientprovider relationship.First, the issue of cost is relatively straightforward. It is no secret that the cost of medical care is high. That "legitimate physicians," to quote Dr Callan, are willing to advocate a position, or more appropriately positions, that emphasize preventive care should be welcomed rather than suspected. Further, from the consumer point of view, is it really any