Integrative Oncology Training for Supportive Care Nurses in the Middle-East

This paper explores the pivotal role of nurses in the design and implementation of integrative oncology (IO) programs in the Middle East. The collaborative work of the Middle East Research Group in Integrative Oncology (MERGIO) is highlighted, addressing nurse-led IO in both the region and globally.

In this narrative review, twelve IO professionals from the Middle East and North America reflected on IO-related nursing practices within the activities of MERGIO, including research; health professional education; and clinical practice. Barriers to and facilitators of IO nursing in the Middle East were identified.

A large body of IO nursing research from the Middle East was identified, with an increasing number of studies examining IO education, primarily multi-disciplinary training, and clinical practice. The activities of MERGIO were facilitated through a collaboration with IO nurses from Europe, North America and other countries with academic affiliations; along with activities under the auspices of the Society for Integrative Oncology (SIO), including SIO Europe.

For the last 15 years IO nursing in the Middle East, supported by MERGIO, has made significant advances. Training programs for nurses using a competency-based IO syllabus, while providing clinical opportunities to implement these skills in real-life cancer care, should be regarded as primary and achievable goals.

Nurses should be seen as a driving force behind the promotion and implementation of IO in cancer care. While research and training are central to the design of competency-based IO nursing programs, the implementation gap between theory and IO practice must be bridged.