Designing a 'NHS friendly' complementary therapy service: A qualitative case study
2008

Designing a 'NHS friendly' complementary therapy service

Sample size: 20 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Wye Lesley, Shaw Alison, Sharp Debbie

Primary Institution: University of Bristol

Hypothesis

What are the features of a 'NHS friendly' complementary therapy service that would be accepted by NHS stakeholders?

Conclusion

The study identifies that creating a 'NHS friendly' complementary therapy service is complex and may not fully align with holistic healthcare principles.

Supporting Evidence

  • The study involved interviews with NHS professionals to gather insights on service design.
  • Findings suggest that specific therapies for specific conditions are preferred by NHS stakeholders.
  • Concerns about safety and the need for trained therapists were highlighted by participants.
  • Regular evaluation of services was deemed important for maintaining support from NHS professionals.

Takeaway

This study looked at how to make complementary therapy services work better in the NHS, but found it’s tricky to balance specific treatments with a holistic approach.

Methodology

A qualitative case study approach involving interviews and documentary data analysis.

Potential Biases

Potential bias in perceptions of evidence and decision-making processes among NHS professionals.

Limitations

The study was limited to two case sites and did not include PCT managers at one site due to concerns about funding.

Participant Demographics

Participants included 20 NHS professionals, such as PCT managers, doctors, nurses, and administrators.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1472-6963-8-173

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication