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Research: HÜBNER and COLLEAGUES,
Listed in Issue 226
Abstract
HÜBNER and COLLEAGUES, (1)Dr. Senckenberg Chronomedical Institute, J.W. Goethe University, Theodor-Stern- Kai 7, 60590, Frankfurt/Main, Germany. huebner@med.uni-frankfurt.de set out to provide a strategy for establishing evidence-based counselling on CAM in oncology in the German health system.
Background
Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is of high relevance in oncology. Only a minority of professionals feel competent in CAM. Our aim was to provide a strategy for establishing evidence-based counselling on CAM in oncology in the German health system.
Methodology
The authors performed a systematic search of the literature on patient counselling concerning CAM. Of 811 articles identified in this search 51 met the inclusion criteria. Data from these articles were analyzed and adapted to the needs of German patients by a group of experts of the DEGRO ("Deutschen Gesellschaft für Radioonkologie") and the German Cancer Society. In the next step a strategy about how to integrate evidence-based counselling on CAM at cancer centres and oncological institutions was developed.
Results
First, evidence-based recommendations on CAM counselling were derived. The core of our strategy combines two levels of information provision: level 1 will be oncologists, radiotherapists and other specialists and level 2 oncological CAM experts. The latter group will serve as trainers and backup for complicated or advanced questions and for individual counselling of patients with complex needs. Professionals in level 1 will be offered special training.
Conclusion
Evidence-based counselling on CAM is not only possible but also mandatory in order to meet patient information needs. Our proposal would allow for integrated counselling available at all oncological institutions and guarantee a high quality. Furthermore, provision of information on two different levels allows the effective use of resources (manpower and financing).
References
Hübner J(1), Muenstedt K, Muecke R, Micke O, Stoll C, Kleeberg UR, Buentzel J, Dennert G, Prott FJ; PRIO (Working group Prevention and Integrative Oncology of the German Cancer Society); AKTE (Working group Trace Elements of the German Society of Radiooncology (DEGRO)). Counselling cancer patients on complementary and alternative medicine. Background, theory, and implementation of nationwide counselling facilities. Strahlenther Onkol. 189(8):613-7. doi: 10.1007/s00066-013-0392-4. Epub Jul 5 2013. Aug 2013.
Comment
The above published study from Germany, in addition to noting the importance and relevance of CAM in oncology, also states that “Evidence-based counselling on CAM is not only possible but also mandatory in order to meet patient information needs. Our proposal would allow for integrated counselling available at all oncological institutions and guarantee a high quality”.
