Rural Physicians' Perceptions, Beliefs, and Practice Patterns: Catalysts or Barriers to the Diffusion of Complementary Medicine
Graduation Date
2006
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Document Form
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Nursing
Department or Program Chair
Barbara Ganley, PhD
Thesis Advisor
Luanne Linnard-Palmer, EdD, RN
Abstract
Context: The use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) in the U.S. has expanded exponentially over the last decade. There has been an equally impressive increase in scientific research documenting the efficacy of many complementary modalities. Yet, physicians have been reticent to integrate CAM in conventional treatment protocols. The existing research literature suggests the value of more directly investigating the role of physicians’ perceptions, health beliefs, and practice behaviors in impacting this integration process. The majority of studies have focused on providers practicing in urban locales, neglecting physicians in the rural practice setting. This information is essential for the development of strategies to improve the quality of healthcare for patients in rural areas. Objective: This current investigation examines the role of rural physicians’ perceptions, philosophy of health, and practice behaviors in modulating the integration of CAM. Additionally, it explores the degree to which these variables facilitate the use of an integrative paradigm in rural healthcare. Methods: A descriptive, quantitative survey design was utilized. The sampling frame consisted of 94 physicians practicing in a rural community in eastern Oregon. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS software (v.l 1), with 2-tailed Pearson bivariate correlations computed to identify statistically significant relationships among the variables. Results:
A total of 56 physicians returned the survey, for a response rate of 59.6%. Physicians willingness to assess, counsel, and refer to CAM was significantly correlated with positive perceptions of CAM (r = .563) and holistic health beliefs (r -.424). Increased use of CAM-related behaviors were also strongly correlated (p = 0.01) with the use of integrative practice patterns. Conclusions: Physicians reported overwhelming support of a more integrative practice model. It is this approach that will ensure not only the integration of CAM modalities, but also the evolution of a more comprehensive, patient- centered, and cost-effective approach to healthcare.