Understanding the motivation related to the admission of traditional Chinese medicine by patients

Background and goals

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is widely used in caring in China as an integral part of treatment. This study was aimed at understanding the motivation of patients with cancer in China to accept TCM in the treatment and examining their communication with oncologists. Acquiring insight into these factors can increase culturally sensitive, patient -focused oncological care.

Methods

Another sample of 287 outpatient patients with cancer was employed. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected, the use of TCM, the main reasons for taking TCM and communication on TCM with oncologists. Descriptive statistics, binary logistic regression and thematic analysis were used to analyze data.

Results

The main reasons for the selection of TCM patients belonged to the five main categories: (1) Faith in the benefits of TCM itself, (2) Recommendations from others (family, friends or oncologists), (3) Faith in the benefits of combining TCM with Western medicine (WM), (4) Earlier positive experiences with TCM and (5) dissatisfaction with WM. Of the 103 patients who consulted with external TCM suppliers, 65% revealed to their oncologies. Longer time diagnosis He was associated with a greater probability of disclosure, while employed patients less often informed their oncologists. Oncologists’ answers differed, and 55% did not approve or reject external TCM prescriptions.

Conclusions

The main reasons why patients used TCM were perceived benefits and recommendations for oncologists and family members. To improve patient care, Chinese service providers should receive training to better understand the beliefs of patients and cultural practices, enabling more personalized and culturally sensitive care. Western -oncology must also understand the prevalence and motivations related to the use of TCM among Chinese immigrants. This understanding promotes cultural competences and strengthens relationships with the patient. Less than a third of patients are looking for additional TCM care, and most of them discussed additional TCM treatment with the current oncologist. It is critical to deal with communication gaps through patient education programs. These programs should emphasize the importance of revealing the use of TCM oncologies, thus minimizing the risk associated with non -organized care. Oncologists should also be prepared to deal with misunderstandings about TCM in a way that respects its cultural importance, promoting respect and a holistic approach to patient care. In addition, as emphasized in this manuscript, further research is necessary to examine the impact of family and social recommendations on treatment decisions. These discoveries strengthen the importance of integration of cultural practices with modern oncology in order to ensure holistic and effective care of the patient.