Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has become an essential part of cancer treatment for many patients in China. This study explores the reasons behind cancer patients’ decision to use TCM in their treatment and how they communicate this with their oncologists. Understanding these motivations can improve patient-centered care by making it more culturally sensitive.
Study Overview A group of 287 cancer outpatients was selected for the study. Researchers collected information about their demographics, health conditions, use of TCM, and reasons for adopting it. They also explored how patients discussed TCM with their oncologists. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and various research methods.
Key Findings Patients’ reasons for choosing TCM can be grouped into five main categories:
Belief in TCM’s benefits – Many patients believe that TCM offers significant health benefits.
Recommendations from others – Family, friends, and even oncologists often suggest TCM as a treatment option.
Combination of TCM and Western medicine (WM) – Some patients believe combining both treatments is the best approach.
Previous positive experiences – Patients who have had positive experiences with TCM in the past are likely to continue using it.
Dissatisfaction with or intolerance to Western medicine – Some patients turn to TCM when they are unhappy with Western treatments or cannot tolerate them.
Out of 103 patients who sought TCM from external providers, 65% told their oncologists about it. The longer a patient had been diagnosed with cancer, the more likely they were to inform their doctor. However, employed patients were less likely to discuss their TCM use with their oncologists. Responses from doctors varied, with 55% neither supporting nor opposing the use of external TCM treatments.
Conclusion The main reasons cancer patients choose TCM are its perceived benefits and the advice they receive from oncologists and family members. To improve patient care, Chinese healthcare providers should be trained to understand their patients’ cultural practices and beliefs.
This can help offer more personalized care. For Western oncologists, understanding the widespread use of TCM among Chinese patients is important for building trust and improving communication. Although only about one-third of patients seek TCM from outside providers, most discuss it with their oncologists.
To reduce risks of uncoordinated care, patient education programs should stress the importance of openly communicating about TCM. Doctors should also be prepared to address misconceptions about TCM in a respectful way, helping to create a more holistic approach to patient care.
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