Profession
One-third of Americans use alternative medicine
NEWS IN BRIEF — Posted May 9, 2005
In its most recent report on complementary and alternative medicine, the Institute of Medicine says its use is widespread among the U.S. population, with more than one-third of adults reporting that they have used treatments such as herbal remedies, acupuncture and naturopathy.
Despite the popularity, fewer than 40% of complementary and alternative medicine users tell their physicians about it, said the IOM report, "Complementary and Alternative Medicine in the United States." More than half of physicians reported that they would encourage patients to talk to them about using alternative medicine therapies. Doctors also said they would refer patients for treatments that fall into that category.
Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2005/05/09/prbf0509.htm.
