Exploring traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine (TCIM) users in Germany: Insights into characteristics...

This qualitative study explores perspectives and experiences of users of Traditional, Complementary, and Integrative Medicine (TCIM) in university outpatient departments in Berlin, Germany. While TCIM use is widespread, little is known about user perceptions and interaction patterns. The study aims to deepen understanding of the socio-medical context of TCIM use in Germany, focusing on user characteristics and identities.

Twenty semi-structured interviews were conducted in 2023 with patients from TCIM outpatient departments at Charité Berlin. Using an interview guide, participants reflected on experiences, perceptions, and biographical backgrounds related to TCIM. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, anonymized, and analyzed using MAXQDA following Kuckartz's content analysis. Key themes included motivations, health conceptions, and roles within the social context.

Participants (17 women, 3 men; mean age 62) associated TCIM with holistic care addressing physical, psychological, and spiritual aspects. Acupuncture, homeopathy, and dietary therapies were commonly used. Motivations included especially dissatisfaction with conventional care, personal beliefs, and social influence. Participants actively engaged in their treatment choices, often maintaining good relationships with general practitioners, while criticizing specialist disregard of TCIM. TCIM acceptance reflected broader concepts of health, including personal responsibility and non-material aspects.

Study results suggest that patient narratives and experiences play a central role in TCIM use. Participants called for integrative care models that value psychological and spiritual aspects alongside somatic treatment. Findings underscore a shift towards active patient roles. Given TCIM's continued relevance in Germany, integrating evidence-based TCIM into health systems may enhance patient engagement and outcomes.