Factors Affecting the Perception of Indonesian Medical Doctors on Herbal Medicine Prescription in Healthcare Facilities: Qualitative and Quantitative Studies

Abstract

ObjectiveThis study evaluates the perception of medical doctors on herbal medicines and analyses the factors influencing their use of herbal medicines in therapeutic decisions. MethodsA quantitative and qualitative research model (concurrent mixed method) was used in this study. Eleven participants attended a focus group discussion (FGD) representing herbal medicine-related stakeholders in Indonesia. Online surveys were conducted by emphasising the problems found in the FGD. Six main topics were selected based on their probability to determine respondents’ levels of agreement or disagreement. The qualitative data were analysed and presented as a descriptive narration, whereas the quantitative data were analysed using principal component analysis. ResultsThe most discussed topics about herbal medicines in the FGD were legal aspects, prescription, bad stigma, lack of knowledge, lack of confidence, lack of evidence, and obstacles from the medical committee. We found that two factors comprised the central issue in the quantitative approach: the lack of knowledge on herbal medicines and the scientific evidence of the herbal medicine products. ConclusionsShifting the perception of medical doctors on herbal medicines is required. The exposure to herbal medicine research and publications for medical doctors must be intensified.