Logo image
Back
Classical Chinese medicine self-care: Participants' perspectives on a pilot program for community health
Journal article   Peer reviewed

Classical Chinese medicine self-care: Participants' perspectives on a pilot program for community health

Alaia Harvie, Amie Steel and Jon Wardle
European Journal of Integrative Medicine, Vol.37, pp.1-7
08/2020
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eujim.2020.101158
url
Classical Chinese medicine self-careView
Published (Version of record)

Related links

Metrics

20 Record Views

UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

This output has contributed to the advancement of the following goals:

#3 Good Health and Well-Being

Source: InCites

Abstract

Chinese medicine Classical medicine Community health Health behaviour change Qualitative research Self-care
Introduction Classical Chinese medicine (CCM) includes numerous simple lifestyle recommendations which can be adopted into daily life in support of short and long-term health outcomes. The rise of chronic illness and non-communicable disease globally, in recent decades, has created a call for acceptable, cost-effective and scalable health care programs. This analysis explores the experience of participants in a CCM community healthcare program delivered in rural Scotland. Methods Semi-structured interviews were employed in which a sample of program participants (n = 11) were interviewed about their overall experience in participating in the CCM program, inclusive of their experience adopting the recommended practices, program challenges and/or perceived barriers and any self-reported changes in health and well-being. The data were analysed and themes developed using the Framework Approach. Results Themes emerged in four key areas: Improvements in health and self-awareness; Self-direction, adaptability and prior exposure; Personalised support, self-reflective tools, sustaining engagement; and Cultural barriers, accessibility and strengthening networks. Interviewees were from a diverse range of occupational backgrounds with the majority aged over 50 years. Conclusion This study suggests individuals engaged in a CCM community healthcare program may experience improved physical and emotional health outcomes and may feel motivated to adopt CCM self-care practices through program elements which enhance self-efficacy. The clinical benefit of these self-care practices and the feasibility of CCM community healthcare programs on other settings warrant closer researcher attention.

Details

Logo image