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An approach to teaching dermatologists about complementary medicine.
Eran Ben-Arye1, M Frenkel, M Ziv
1Complementary and Traditional Medicine Unit, Department of Family Medicine, Clalit Health Services, The Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.
Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (New York, N.Y.)
|January 15, 2005
Summary
Dermatologists and nurses are increasingly encountering patients using complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Educating healthcare providers on CAM, using an evidence-based approach, improves patient communication and advice.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Medical Education
Background:
- Growing use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) by dermatology patients.
- Lack of formal education for healthcare providers on discussing CAM with patients.
- Need for evidence-based guidance on CAM in dermatologic care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe an educational approach for dermatologists and nurses regarding CAM.
- To enhance provider knowledge on common CAM modalities and evidence-based integration.
- To improve patient-doctor communication about CAM in dermatology.
Main Methods:
- A specialized course on CAM and dermatology was developed and delivered.
- Participants included 17 dermatologists and nurses at a university hospital.
- The curriculum focused on common CAM methods, evidence-based practice, and communication strategies.
Main Results:
- Participants recognized the importance of evidence-based research in CAM referrals.
- Course evaluation indicated increased awareness of CAM's role in dermatologic care.
- Participants showed a greater understanding of how to approach CAM discussions.
Conclusions:
- Educating dermatologists and nurses on CAM is feasible and beneficial.
- An evidence-based, patient-centered approach enhances provider ability to advise on CAM.
- Improved education can lead to more informed and balanced patient care regarding CAM.