科研之友
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摘要
Objective: A whole systems research approach was used to explore the psychosocial functions attributed to an Integrative Medicine oncology program. Field research was conducted at a cancer clinic to answer the following questions: (1) what meanings do the participants attribute to the Integrative Medicine oncology program; (2) what contributes to sustaining the Integrative Medicine program; and (3) what role does the Integrative Medicine program play in the lives of the participants.
Methods: Participant observation and in-depth interviews were conducted at a community-based cancer clinic that offers various complementary modalities along with conventional cancer treatments.
Participants: The data were obtained from a total of 23 participants including cancer patients/survivors, caregivers, volunteers who provided the complementary therapies, and healthcare professionals at the clinic.
Results: Results indicated that the Integrative Medicine program had three major psychosocial functions for those involved. Participants viewed the Integrative Medicine program as a place (1) to exchange health/medical information and learn from others experiences and expertise, (2) to give and receive emotional support, and (3) for the individual to act on his/her transformed new identity and new life goals through serving others.
Conclusions: The results illustrate the positive psychosocial impacts an Integrative Medicine program may bring to individuals involved in it and suggest the value of using a whole systems research (WSR) approach to Integrative Medicine research.
- 出版日期2013-12
