Summary
Background
There is increasing use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs), particularly
amongst patients with cancer. This paper aims to better understand the types of CAM
people are using and explore the reasons for using these approaches. This paper will
also identify what patients want from health professionals in relation to CAM and
the actions and attitudes of health professionals towards CAM. Finally, this paper
will discuss the potential implications for health services.
Method
Two surveys were conducted, a self-administered survey was completed by oncology patients;
and a second online survey completed by staff.
Results
Patients used CAM as an adjunct to services they receive from conventional health
services, not as an alternative. The positive and empowering role that complementary
health practices play in people's lives was a common theme as was the need for CAM
to be used with care.
Survey responses by health care staff revealed mixed views of CAM. Most staff had
positive views about CAM as a treatment adjunct and said they responded to patients
accordingly. Only a minority expressed scepticism and were less inclined to support
CAM use by their patients. Nevertheless, few staff instigated discussions around CAM.
Conclusion
This paper presents key considerations for health services wanting to better respond
to CAM and adopt an integrated approach to health care.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: April 16, 2012
Accepted:
March 6,
2012
Received in revised form:
March 4,
2012
Received:
July 6,
2010
Identification
Copyright
© 2012 Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
