Attitudes toward and use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) among general practitioners in Germany—A cross-sectional survey

Abstract

Background There is evidence that about two thirds of Germans use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). To assess the reality of CAM care, information about use in practice and attitudes of doctors is required. This survey aimed to evaluate the use of and attitude toward CAM among general practitioners (GPs) in Germany. Methods A postal questionnaire based on qualitatively derived data was sent to 3000 randomly selected GPs in Germany. A reminder letter including a postcard was sent to all GPs who had not returned the questionnaire. Results A completed questionnaire was returned by 34% of the GPs (1027/3000). In addition, 15% (444/3000) returned only the postcard with a completed single key question about CAM use in practice. Of the responding GPs, 60% reported using CAM in their practice. A ‘positive’ attitude toward CAM was indicated by 49% of the responding GPs, whereas 12% indicated a ‘negative’ attitude toward CAM. Chirotherapy, relaxation and neural therapy were rated as most beneficial CAM therapies whereas neural therapy, phytotherapy and acupuncture were the most commonly used therapies in practice. Conclusion This survey clearly demonstrates the relevance of CAM in day-to-day practice of GPs suggesting that CAM is making a measurable contribution to first-contact primary care in Germany. Considering the widespread use, research and education in CAM has to be increased. Furthermore, GPs need to be aware of their present and future role in providing CAM balancing the use of unproven CAM therapies carefully between possible benefit and side effects.