Information Resource Needs of Queensland General Practitioners on Complementary Medicines
Author Information
Author(s): Tina Janamian, Peter O'Rourke, Stephen P. Myers, Heàther Eastwood
Primary Institution: University of Queensland
Hypothesis
What are the attitudes, knowledge, and practice behaviors of Queensland GPs regarding complementary medicines?
Conclusion
Queensland GPs are open to integrating complementary medicines into their clinical practice but feel they lack adequate knowledge and resources.
Supporting Evidence
- 96% of GPs believe their patients are using complementary medicines.
- Only 12% of GPs feel they have adequate knowledge to advise patients about complementary medicines.
- 93% of GPs expressed a high need for information resources on vitamins, minerals, and trace elements.
Takeaway
Doctors in Queensland want to learn more about alternative medicines but don't feel they know enough to help their patients.
Methodology
A faxed self-administered survey was sent to a random sample of 800 GPs in Queensland, with 463 completed surveys returned.
Potential Biases
Self-reporting may lead to recall bias and response bias.
Limitations
The study had underrepresentation of male and older GPs, and the self-reporting nature may introduce bias.
Participant Demographics
The respondents were slightly overrepresentative of female and younger GPs.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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