Survey of members of the German society for palliative medicine regarding their attitudes toward complementary and alternative medicine for cancer patients

摘要

Many cancer patients use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Yet, mostly they derive information from family and friends and not from professionals.1 Communication on CAM between patient and professionals is important. So far, no sufficient data have been published on the attitude towards CAM of physicians and other professionals working in palliative care. We conducted an Internet based survey with a standardized questionnaire, which was provided to all members of the German Society for Palliative Care (DGP). We differentiated between complementary and alternative therapy, the former being provided as an accessory treatment, the latter being provided instead of conventional treatment. Participants were asked about their attitude towards CAM, their own experiences and willingness to use complementary or alternative treatments. Furthermore, a list of different complementary therapies was provided and participants were asked whether they recommend these methods (as complementary or as alternative).