Decision‐making related to complementary and alternative medicine use by people with Type 2 diabetes: a qualitative study

Abstract

To explore how complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) users make decisions about CAM use. Specifically, an exploration of the processes used by people with Type 2 diabetes, related to the assessment of information sources, factors influencing decision-making and the role of other key individuals, was undertaken. Patients with chronic illnesses increasingly seek to use CAM to improve their well-being. Currently, however, the decision-making processes related to CAM use among people with Type 2 diabetes are poorly understood. An exploratory study using a naturalistic design, with in-depth semi-structured interviews, was undertaken. Purposive sampling was used to recruit participants with Type 2 diabetes who used CAM alongside conventional medicine. The data were analysed in a three-step coding process. Ethical approval was gained from a human research ethics committee. Evidence about CAM use from interview data was consistent with a multi-dimensional decision-making processes used by participants. Four major categories emerged: recognising the need for using CAM; assessing the potential CAM before use; matching CAM use to personal philosophy; and ongoing evaluation of CAM. As diabetes affects the entirety of a person's being self-management, incorporating CAMs has become a way of controlling the condition and improving well-being. It is important for health professionals to consider clients' CAM use and to incorporate this information, where appropriate, into management plans. Health care professionals should be aware of patients who use CAM while under conventional medical care and should discuss CAM use at various points in the client journey to facilitate better communication.