Patient Satisfaction Concerning CAM Discussions with Primary Care Providers

Abstract

With the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) growing in the United States and few primary care providers (PCPs) inquiring about their patients’ CAM usage, patients may be left feeling unsatisfied with their health care. The purpose of this study was to determine the satisfaction of people regarding CAM discussions with their PCP. This study used a descriptive survey design. Data was collected by a questionnaire that was distributed to a convenience sample of 113 participants at public venues. Participants were 18 years of age or older and were able to read and write in English. The sample ranged in age from 20 to 90 years with most being Caucasian (81%) and female (67%). Results showed that 41 participants (36%) used CAM. Twenty-four participants (21%) were asked about their use of CAM by their PCP and 27 participants (24%) stated that they were satisfied with their discussions of CAM with their PCPs. These findings indicated that there were few providers discussing CAM with their patients, despite how many people would like to talk about CAM. Providers may want to become more knowledgeable about CAM therapies so that they can discuss these options and become more sensitive to the needs of their patients.