Evaluating CAM Interventions: Finding Patient-Centered Outcome Measures
Author Information
Author(s): Marja J Verhoef, Laura C Vanderheyden, Trish Dryden, Devon Mallory, Mark A Ware
Primary Institution: University of Calgary
Hypothesis
What are the specific needs for a database covering a wide range of outcome measures for CAM research?
Conclusion
A preliminary framework for health-related outcomes in CAM has been developed, providing a foundation for a comprehensive collection of CAM outcomes.
Supporting Evidence
- 164 completed surveys were received from CAM researchers, practitioners, and students.
- 62 respondents reported using outcome measures in their CAM research.
- 92 different specific outcomes were identified by the respondents.
Takeaway
Researchers wanted to find better ways to measure how well complementary and alternative medicine works for patients, so they created a framework to help with this.
Methodology
An online survey was conducted among CAM researchers, practitioners, and students to gather information on outcome measures used in CAM research.
Potential Biases
The respondents were a motivated group, which may not reflect the broader population of CAM researchers and practitioners.
Limitations
The study may not represent all individuals interested in CAM research due to its sampling method and relatively low response rate.
Participant Demographics
Respondents included practitioners (32.3%), researchers (28%), educators (12.8%), students (9.8%), and others.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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