Kai Sing Sun1, Yeung Hung Cheng2, Yuk Tsan Wun1, Tai Pong Lam3. 1. Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China. 2. Sau Po Centre on Ageing, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; The Nethersole School of Nursing, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China. 3. Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China. Electronic address: tplam@hku.hk.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: About 15-20% of the general public in Hong Kong consult TCM practitioners. This study explored the decision making process involved in Hong Kong Chinese's choice between TCM and western medicine. METHODS: Eight focus group interviews (six to eight participants per group) and four individual interviews were conducted. RESULTS: The participants kept an "old fashioned" concept of TCM. Many saw TCM as a non-scientific practice and had stronger trust on the credibility of western medicine. Some participants, however, preferred the more personalized treatment approach of TCM. While western medicine was usually the initial choice, the participants were pragmatic to adopt TCM when they felt western medicine was not working, or to supplement the treatment. They were often referred by members of their social networks. CONCLUSION: The public' perception of TCM lagged behind its actual development. Many TCM users are pragmatic users who learn through trial and error.
BACKGROUND: About 15-20% of the general public in Hong Kong consult TCM practitioners. This study explored the decision making process involved in Hong Kong Chinese's choice between TCM and western medicine. METHODS: Eight focus group interviews (six to eight participants per group) and four individual interviews were conducted. RESULTS: The participants kept an "old fashioned" concept of TCM. Many saw TCM as a non-scientific practice and had stronger trust on the credibility of western medicine. Some participants, however, preferred the more personalized treatment approach of TCM. While western medicine was usually the initial choice, the participants were pragmatic to adopt TCM when they felt western medicine was not working, or to supplement the treatment. They were often referred by members of their social networks. CONCLUSION: The public' perception of TCM lagged behind its actual development. Many TCM users are pragmatic users who learn through trial and error.