BACKGROUND: Unconventional medical therapies, that is, health interventions not normally taught in medical school, consume more than $10 billion per year; yet, little is known of physician involvement with these therapies. METHOD: A national mailed survey of primary care internists with single board certification and of board-certified family physicians was undertaken to determine physician attitude and behavior toward unconventional therapies. The survey identified 16 unconventional therapies. RESULTS: A total of 572 responses were analyzed. These indicated that more than half of these physicians would encourage patients who raise the possibility of unconventional therapy. A large proportion (57%) were willing to refer their patients for treatment for six or more unconventional therapies. CONCLUSIONS: This study indicates considerable physician interest and participation in unconventional medicine, suggesting a need for research and education to help them guide their patients.
BACKGROUND: Unconventional medical therapies, that is, health interventions not normally taught in medical school, consume more than $10 billion per year; yet, little is known of physician involvement with these therapies. METHOD: A national mailed survey of primary care internists with single board certification and of board-certified family physicians was undertaken to determine physician attitude and behavior toward unconventional therapies. The survey identified 16 unconventional therapies. RESULTS: A total of 572 responses were analyzed. These indicated that more than half of these physicians would encourage patients who raise the possibility of unconventional therapy. A large proportion (57%) were willing to refer their patients for treatment for six or more unconventional therapies. CONCLUSIONS: This study indicates considerable physician interest and participation in unconventional medicine, suggesting a need for research and education to help them guide their patients.