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Witt CM, Balneaves LG, Carlson LE, Cohen M, Deng G, Fouladbakhsh JM, Kinney AY, Mehta A, Mailman J, Pole L, Rogge AA, O'Toole C, Zick SM, Helmer SM. Education Competencies for Integrative Oncology-Results of a Systematic Review and an International and Interprofessional Consensus Procedure. JOURNAL OF CANCER EDUCATION : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER EDUCATION 2022; 37:499-507. [PMID: 32783117 PMCID: PMC7876161 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-020-01829-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Integrative oncology is a burgeoning field and typically provided by a multiprofessional team. To ensure cancer patients receive effective, appropriate, and safe care, health professionals providing integrative cancer care should have a certain set of competencies. The aim of this project was to define core competencies for different health professions involved in integrative oncology. The project consisted of two phases. A systematic literature review on published competencies was performed, and the results informed an international and interprofessional consensus procedure. The second phase consisted of three rounds of consensus procedure and included 28 experts representing 7 different professions (medical doctors, psychologists, nurses, naturopathic doctors, traditional Chinese medicine practitioners, yoga practitioners, patient navigators) as well as patient advocates, public health experts, and members of the Society for Integrative Oncology. A total of 40 integrative medicine competencies were identified in the literature review. These were further complemented by 18 core oncology competencies. The final round of the consensus procedure yielded 37 core competencies in the following categories: knowledge (n = 11), skills (n = 17), and abilities (n = 9). There was an agreement that these competencies are relevant for all participating professions. The integrative oncology core competencies combine both fundamental oncology knowledge and integrative medicine competencies that are necessary to provide effective and safe integrative oncology care for cancer patients. They can be used as a starting point for developing profession-specific learning objectives and to establish integrative oncology education and training programs to meet the needs of cancer patients and health professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia M Witt
- Institute for Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Sonneggstrasse 6, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology, and Health Economics, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 13353, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Lynda G Balneaves
- College of Nursing, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Linda E Carlson
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Misha Cohen
- Chicken Soup Chinese Medicine, San Francisco, CA, USA
- American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine at California Institute of Integral Studies, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Gary Deng
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Anita Y Kinney
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Rutgers, Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | | | | | - Laura Pole
- Smith Center for Healing and the Arts, Institute for Integrative Oncology Navigation, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Alizé A Rogge
- Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology, and Health Economics, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - Carole O'Toole
- Smith Center for Healing and the Arts, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Suzanna M Zick
- Department of Family Medicine and Nutritional Sciences Schools of Medicine and Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Stefanie M Helmer
- Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology, and Health Economics, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 13353, Berlin, Germany
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An education on pharmacologically active complementary and alternative medicine and its effects on cancer treatment: literature review. Support Care Cancer 2021; 30:3057-3072. [PMID: 34757445 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-021-06679-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This literature review examines the provision of an education on pharmacologically active complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs), to people with cancer, their carers and oncology health professionals. METHODS A search of the published literature between 2000 and 2020, in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines, was conducted. The search retrieved 1121 studies, 1080 were excluded based on their title or abstract and 26 articles were excluded based on their text. One article was retrieved from the reference lists of the included articles and in total fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria. This review utilised Medical Education Research Quality Instrument (MERSQI) to evaluate the quality of the included studies. Four key outcomes were utilised for analysis and recommendations for future education and/or research were generated. The recommendations were graded according to the Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy (SORT). RESULTS This review consistently found that people with cancer, their carers and oncology health professionals derived benefit from a pharmacologically active CAM education and recommends that this population receives one. Conversely, the review found many education formats utilised and no consensus on the most successful methods. CONCLUSION Future research should examine who a CAM education should be delivered to, what type of delivery platform is most accessible and useful, and the features of the education that most increase CAM knowledge. The popularity of CAMs amongst people with cancer and the potential dangers associated with their use necessitates further research into how best to communicate CAMs to this population.
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Balneaves LG, Watling CZ, Hayward EN, Ross B, Taylor-Brown J, Porcino A, Truant TLO. Addressing Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use Among Individuals With Cancer: an Integrative Review and Clinical Practice Guideline. J Natl Cancer Inst 2021; 114:25-37. [PMID: 33769512 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djab048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use is common among individuals with cancer, but many choose not to discuss CAM with healthcare providers (HCPs). Moreover, there is variability in the provision of evidence-informed decision making about CAM use. A clinical practice guideline was developed to standardize how oncology HCPs address CAM use as well as to inform how individuals with cancer can be supported in making evidence-informed decisions about CAM. An integrative review of the literature, from inception to December 31st, 2018, was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychINFO, CINAHL, and AMED databases. Eligible articles included oncology HCPs' practice related to discussing, assessing, documenting, providing decision support, or offering information about CAM. Two authors independently searched the literature and selected articles were summarised. Recommendations for clinical practice were formulated from the appraised evidence and clinical experiences of the research team. An expert panel reviewed the guideline for usability and appropriateness and recommendations were finalised. The majority of the 30 studies eligible for inclusion were either observational or qualitative, with only three being reviews and three being experimental. From the literature, seven practice recommendations were formulated for oncology HCPs regarding how to address CAM use by individuals with cancer, including communicating, assessing, educating, decision-coaching, documenting, active monitoring, and adverse event reporting. It is imperative for safe and comprehensive care that oncology HCPs address CAM use as part of standard practice. This clinical practice guideline offers directions on how to support evidence-informed decision making about CAM among individuals with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynda G Balneaves
- College of Nursing, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Cody Z Watling
- College of Nursing, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Emilie N Hayward
- College of Nursing, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | | | | | - Antony Porcino
- BC Cancer, Vancouver, Canada.,School of Nursing, Faculty of Applied Science, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Tracy L O Truant
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Applied Science, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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Witt CM, Helmer SM, Schofield P, Wastell M, Canella C, Thomae AV, Rogge AA. Training oncology physicians to advise their patients on complementary and integrative medicine: An implementation study for a manual‐guided consultation. Cancer 2020; 126:3031-3041. [DOI: 10.1002/cncr.32823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia M. Witt
- Institute for Complementary and Integrative Medicine University of Zurich, University Hospital Zurich Zurich Switzerland
- Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology, and Health Economics Charite ‐ University Medicine Berlin, Humboldt University Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health Berlin Germany
| | - Stefanie M. Helmer
- Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology, and Health Economics Charite ‐ University Medicine Berlin, Humboldt University Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health Berlin Germany
| | - Penelope Schofield
- Department of Psychology and Iverson Health Innovation Research Institute Swinburne University Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Behavioral Sciences Unit, Department of Cancer Experiences Research Peter MacCallum Cancer Center Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria Australia
| | - Marisa Wastell
- Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences Institute of Sociology University of Technology Chemnitz Germany
| | - Claudia Canella
- Institute for Complementary and Integrative Medicine University of Zurich, University Hospital Zurich Zurich Switzerland
| | - Anita V. Thomae
- Institute for Complementary and Integrative Medicine University of Zurich, University Hospital Zurich Zurich Switzerland
| | - Alizé A. Rogge
- Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology, and Health Economics Charite ‐ University Medicine Berlin, Humboldt University Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health Berlin Germany
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Dahlhaus A, Siebenhofer A, Guethlin C. Complementary medicine for cancer patients in general practice: qualitative interviews with german general practitioners. Complement Med Res 2015; 22:36-41. [PMID: 25824403 DOI: 10.1159/000375182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to investigate how general practitioners react when their cancer patients show interest in complementary medicine, and how their reaction is related to their knowledge in the field. METHODS We conducted semi-structured interviews with 10 German general practitioners. Interviewees came from 5 different federal states and varied in terms of urban/rural setting, single/joint practice, additional certifications, gender and length of professional experience. Interviews were electronically recorded, transcribed and then analysed using qualitative content analysis according to Mayring. RESULTS General practitioners feel largely responsible for providing information on complementary medicine to their cancer patients. However, uncertainty and a lack of knowledge concerning CAM lead mainly to reactive responses to patients' needs, and the general practitioners base their recommendations on personal experiences and attitudes. They wish to support their cancer patients and thus, in order to keep their patients' hopes up and maintain a trusting relationship, sometimes support complementary medicine, regardless of their own convictions. CONCLUSION Although general practitioners see themselves as an important source of information on complementary medicine for their cancer patients, they also speak of their uncertainties and lack of knowledge. General practitioners would profit from training in complementary medicine enabling them to discuss this topic with their cancer patients in a proactive, open and honest manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Dahlhaus
- Institute of General Practice, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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Frenkel M, Cohen L. Effective communication about the use of complementary and integrative medicine in cancer care. J Altern Complement Med 2013; 20:12-8. [PMID: 23863085 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2012.0533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Complementary and integrative medicine (CIM) is becoming an increasingly popular and visible component of oncology care. Many patients affected by cancer and their family members are looking for informed advice and desire communication with their physicians about CIM use. Patients affected by cancer come to discuss CIM use with intense emotions and are experiencing an existential crisis that cannot be ignored. Effective communication is crucial in establishing trust with these patients and their families. Communication is now recognized as a core clinical skill in medicine, including cancer care, and is important to the delivery of high-quality care. The quality of communication affects patient satisfaction, decision-making, patient distress and well-being, compliance, and even malpractice litigation. The communication process about CIM use requires a very sensitive approach that depends on effective communication skills, such as experience in listening, encouraging hope, and ability to convey empathy and compassion. This process can be divided into two parts: the "how" and the "what". The "how" relates to the change in clinician attitude, the process of gathering information, addressing patients' unmet needs and emotions, and dealing with uncertainty. The "what" relates to the process of information exchange while assisting patients in decisions about CIM use by using reliable information sources, leading to informed decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moshe Frenkel
- Integrative Medicine Program, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center , Houston, Texas
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Complementary and alternative medicine education for medical profession: systematic review. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2012; 2012:656812. [PMID: 22619692 PMCID: PMC3350858 DOI: 10.1155/2012/656812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2011] [Accepted: 02/14/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Purpose. To help integrate traditional, complementary and alternative medicine (TCAM) into health systems, efforts are being made to educate biomedical doctors (BMD) and medical students on TCAM. We systematically evaluated the effect of TCAM education on BMD and medical students' attitude, knowledge, and behavior towards TCAM utilization and integration with biomedical medicine.
Methods. Evaluative studies were identified from four databases. Methodological quality was assessed using the Medical Education Research Study Quality Instrument (MERSQI). Study outcomes were classified using Kirkpatrick's hierarchy.
Results. 3122 studies were identified and 12 studies of mediocre quality met inclusion criteria. Qualitative synthesis showed usage of diverse approaches including didactic, experiential learning, varying length, teacher background and intensity of exposure. More positive attitudes and improved knowledge after intervention were noted especially when teachers were BM trained. However, few studies assessed behavior change objectively. Finally, longer-term objective outcomes such as impact on patient care were not assessed.
Conclusions. Lack of use of objective and reliable instruments preclude firm conclusion on
the effect of TCAM education on study participants. However, positive changes, although mostly subjectively reported, were noted in most studies. Future evaluation should use validated or objective outcome assessments, and the value of using dual trained instructors.
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Ben-Arye E, Lev E, Schiff E. Complementary medicine oncology research in the Middle-East: Shifting from traditional to integrative cancer care. Eur J Integr Med 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2011.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Ben-Arye E, Schiff E, Steiner M, Silbermann M. Wheatgrass in Afifi's garden: sprouting integrative oncology collaborations in the Middle East. J Clin Oncol 2011; 29:944-6. [PMID: 21220607 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2010.33.4532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We suggest that bridging traditional and modern medicine can in many cases empower patients and enable them to better cope with cancer treatment. Our experiences in the Middle East might be applicable to other areas of the world facing a similar need to integrate evidence-based medicine with narrative-based, ethics-based, and ethnic medicine in the practice of oncology. In addition,we hope that our common efforts will encourage future collaboration among scientists and clinicians in the Middle East, which in turn might promote understanding, tolerance, and mutual respect among professionals in an area of the world troubled by ongoing geopolitical conflict.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eran Ben-Arye
- Lin Medical Center, Clalit Health Services; Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Israel.
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Schofield P, Diggens J, Charleson C, Marigliani R, Jefford M. Effectively discussing complementary and alternative medicine in a conventional oncology setting: communication recommendations for clinicians. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2010; 79:143-51. [PMID: 19783116 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2009.07.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2009] [Revised: 07/15/2009] [Accepted: 07/30/2009] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Justifiable concerns around the use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) amongst cancer patients are becoming increasingly prominent. The aim was to develop evidence-based guidelines to assist oncology health professionals (HP) to have respectful, balanced and useful discussions with patients about CAM. METHODS A systematic review was conducted, covering relevant literature from 1997 to 2007. The level of evidence was rated using a standardized rating system. The evidence was qualitatively synthesised into structured recommendations by a multidisciplinary team including a consumer. RESULTS The search identified 78 original papers; 36 directly related to discussing CAM. No randomized controlled trials specifically addressing the methods or benefits of discussing CAM were identified. Evidence based guidelines are presented as a sequence of recommended steps: (1) Elicit the person's understanding of their situation; (2) Respect cultural and linguistic diversity and different epistemological frameworks; (3) Ask questions about CAM use at critical points in the illness trajectory; (4) Explore details and actively listen; (5) Respond to the person's emotional state; (6) Discuss relevant concerns while respecting the person's beliefs; (7) Provide balanced, evidence-based advice; (8) Summarize discussions; (9) Document the discussion; (10) Monitor and follow-up. CONCLUSION This represents the first comprehensive guidelines for discussing CAM. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Given the concerns surrounding CAM use, it is critical to encourage informed decision-making about CAM and ultimately, improve outcomes for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Penelope Schofield
- Nursing and Supportive Care Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, East Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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Frenkel M, Ben-Arye E, Cohen L. Communication in Cancer Care: Discussing Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Integr Cancer Ther 2010; 9:177-85. [DOI: 10.1177/1534735410363706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, there has been an increased interest in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use among people with cancer. Many are looking for informed advice and desire communication with their physicians about CAM use. Communication is crucial in establishing trust with patients, gathering information, addressing patient emotions, and assisting patients in decisions about care. The quality of communication in cancer care has been shown to affect patient satisfaction, decision making, patient distress and well-being, compliance, and even malpractice litigation. Communication is now recognized as a core clinical skill in medicine, including cancer care, and is important to the delivery of high-quality care. A communication approach that fosters a collaborative relationship that includes adequate information exchange, responds to emotional needs, and manages uncertainty can lead to informed decisions about CAM use. This type of communication can help facilitate an open discussion with cancer patients and their families about integrating CAM use into their care and help physicians fulfill their roles in caring, comforting, and healing, even when cure is not possible. In this article, the authors discuss a possible model of effective patient—physician communication about CAM use in cancer care based on a comprehensive overview of the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moshe Frenkel
- The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA,
| | - Eran Ben-Arye
- Haifa and Western Galilee Oncology Service, Lin Medical Center, Clalit Health Services, Haifa and Western Galilee District, Israel, The Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, The Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel and Clalit Health Services, Haifa and Western Galilee District, Israel
| | - Lorenzo Cohen
- The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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Ben-Arye E, Frenkel M. Referring to complementary and alternative medicine--a possible tool for implementation. Complement Ther Med 2008; 16:325-30. [PMID: 19028332 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2008.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2007] [Revised: 01/17/2008] [Accepted: 02/22/2008] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients' extensive use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) can affect doctor-patient communication. Substantial numbers of patients expect their primary care physician to be able to refer them to CAM practitioners. However, a simple and practical referral CAM process is lacking. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We developed an 11-item questionnaire that addresses issues a physician should consider in determining whether to refer a patient for CAM treatment, including biopsychosocial and communication concerns and the safety and effectiveness of modalities. The tool was administered via questionnaires posted and e-mailed to primary care physicians and CAM practitioners. RESULTS Our CAM referral tool was found to be considerably useful in a primary care setting. High reliability and validity of the tool were found among the primary care physicians (Cronbach's alpha score of 0.867, spearman rho correlation 0.2-0.67) and moderate reliability among CAM practitioners (0.745). CONCLUSIONS We hope that our CAM referral tool will help advance the integration of CAM and conventional medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eran Ben-Arye
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.
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A Descriptive Study of Departmental Policies Regarding Patients' Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Ontario Radiation Therapy Centres. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/s0820-5930(09)60233-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Integrative Oncology: An Overview. Integr Med (Encinitas) 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-1-4160-2954-0.50079-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
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Ben-Arye E, Frenkel M, Hermoni D. An approach to teaching primary care physicians how to integrate complementary medicine into their daily practices: a pilot study. J Altern Complement Med 2006; 12:79-83. [PMID: 16494572 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2006.12.79] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper describes a pilot educational approach to integration of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) into the daily routine of primary care practice. Twelve (12) family practice residents and specialists were assigned to develop an integrative treatment program geared to address the needs of their own patients. In the process, participants were asked to formulate treatment plans by searching resources to find appropriate CAM modalities and consult with CAM practitioners. The effectiveness of the educational process was assessed by questionnaires. The researchers found that providing a short course in advanced integrative medicine improves physician ability to better formulate an individualized treatment plan. This approach of teaching has long-standing results, as noted with a 2-year follow-up evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eran Ben-Arye
- The Complementary and Traditional Medicine Unit, Department of Family Medicine, The Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, The Technion, Israel.
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