Integrating complementary and alternative medicine into medical intern teaching: preliminary findings from an Australian Hospital.

Link to article at PubMed

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Integrating complementary and alternative medicine into medical intern teaching: preliminary findings from an Australian Hospital.

Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2013 Nov;19(4):237-42

Authors: Pierantozzi AM, Steel A, Seleem M

Abstract
Globally, the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) as a component of healthcare is well documented [1]. In Australia, despite escalating use of CAM [2], inclusion within medical curriculum is poorly developed. This study reports findings from a pilot-study of medical interns which examined whether the delivery of a CAM education session had impacted on their attitude, perceived knowledge and subsequent clinical practice. The results indicate that the participants' attitudes towards CAM education were positive, with 92% of participants considering it important for inclusion in junior doctor education. Post-session, participants also reported an acquisition of knowledge in relation to common interactions between CAM and conventional medical treatments and indicated a positive impact on subsequent clinical practice, specifically noting increased awareness of CAM enquiry in clinical practice. Results of this pilot study indicate that CAM and junior doctor education may have a positive impact on improving patient safety and management.

PMID: 24199980 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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