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Research: FLANNERY and others,
Listed in Issue 138
Abstract
FLANNERY and others, University of Kentucky, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA, have studied communication about CAM therapies by primary care clinicians.
Background
People are increasingly using complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) whilst also receiving conventional care. Studies in primary care settings have documented inadequate communication about CAM between patients and their conventional healthcare providers. The aim of this study was to investigate how primary care clinicians in the Kentucky Ambulatory Network (KAN) communicate with patients about CAM.
Methodology
A self-administered survey was mailed to 112 primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, certified nurse midwives, and physician assistants working in 32 counties in central and eastern Kentucky.
Results
Of 102 deliverable surveys, 65 (64%) were returned. 61 (94%) clinicians reported patient CAM use. Few clinicians consistently asked patients about CAM. A positive attitude toward patient CAM use was associated with clinician comfort in advising patients. Most clinicians recommended CAM to patients. 70% of clinicians expressed interest in continuing education about CAM.
Conclusion
The clinicians in this study were aware of their patients’ CAM use and motivated to learn more about CAM.
References
Flannery MA, Love MM, Pearce KA, Luan JJ, Elder WG. Communication about complementary and alternative medicine: perspectives of primary care clinicians. Alternative Therapies in Health & Medicine 12 (1): 56-63, Jan-Feb 2006.
