A survey and analysis on the usage of complementary and Alternative Medicine in Local Healthcare Professionals and patients with various common diseases.

Abstract

A Survey and Analysis on the usage of Complimentary and Alternative Medicine in Local Patients with Various Common Diseases

Tan Jun Yuan

Introduction Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) is gaining popularity across many countries. We looked at CAM use by patients across various common disease groups and perceptions of CAM by Healthcare Professionals, with particular interest in patient-Healthcare Professional interaction.

Materials and Methods 400 patients were surveyed at the Chronic Pain, Diabetes, Heart and Renal Clinics at Singapore General Hospital. Online survey was carried out to collect responses from Healthcare Professionals. Out of 439 who viewed the survey, 307 completed it.

Results Prevalence of CAM usage by these patients was 18.5%. 45.9% of patients did not inform their Doctor about CAM usage. Majority of Healthcare Professionals, between 69.3-85%, were unable to give any advice on CAM suitability or its possible drug interactions. 57% of Healthcare Professionals interviewed were concerned with the possibility of drug interaction from CAM use and 16% were concerned with possible side effect. However, 54.6% of Doctors interviewed indicated they would not take initiative to ask patient about CAM usage.

Conclusion Prevalence of CAM usage observed was lower than in other studies. Even so, lack of interaction between patients and healthcare professionals could have far-reaching consequences like possible adverse effects or interaction arising from the unguided use of CAM. Policies to increase level of interaction needed.