Results of a survey on educational and research programs in complementary and alternative veterinary medicine at veterinary medical schools in the United States.

摘要

Questionnaires were mailed to personnel at all 27 US veterinary schools to document educational and research programmes in complementary and alternative veterinary medicine (CAVM). Responses were received for 41 of 120 (34%) questionnaires. Responses were received from 23 of 27 veterinary schools, but number of respondents varied at each institution (range, 1 to 4) and some surveys were not complete. Seven of 27 veterinary schools had an educational programme in CAVM. 36 (87%) respondents believedthat acupuncture, nutraceuticals, nutritional supplements and physical therapy should be included in the curriculum, 25 (61%) indicated that botanical (herbal) medicine should be included, and 25 (61%) believed that chiropractic should be included. Only17 (44%) respondents believed that homeopathy should be included. Most respondents believed that CAVM should be offered as elective courses. Research in CAVM was carried out at 6 responding schools. It is concluded that, currently, few veterinary schoolsoffer educational or research programmes in CAVM. Veterinary schools are aware of the interest in CAVM and acknowledge a lack of educational and research programmes in these areas. More veterinary schools are in the process of developing educational andresearch programmes in various aspects of CAVM.