Focus on Alternative and Complementary Therapies
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Focus Alternat Complement Ther©2005 Pharmaceutical Press
Focus Altern Complement Ther 2004; 9: 23–4
To conduct a qualitative study to gain understanding of patients’ perceptions of care, outcomes and quality of osteopathic treatment.
A questionnaire survey was sent to all patients attending the undergraduate training clinic (1998–2000) at the John Wernham College of Classical Osteopathy. A content analysis of the free text responses was carried out to identify codes and themes.
Two hundred and ninety-two questionnaires were sent out and 181 (65%) were returned. Personal recommendation was the most common reason for selecting this clinic. Over 80% presented with musculo-skeletal complaints. 91% of subjects were satisfied or highly satisfied with treatment. The respondents attached value to professional thoroughness and dedication, empathy and positive supervision of students. Patients placed a very high value on explanations in terms that fitted their body experience and personal beliefs. Strong feelings were also voiced around privacy and undressing. This may be a barrier to attending. Seventy-nine per cent of respondents perceived that their health had improved as a result of treatment. Other health outcomes mentioned included knowing that pain relief was possible and empowerment through self help. As one patient said ‘The treatment has given me hope and has helped enormously.’
This qualitative survey yielded rich insights not possible with a structured questionnaire. The results suggest osteopathic trials should use wider outcome indicators than disability and pain scales. The recently formed National Council for Osteopathic Research will develop research priorities towards building the osteopathic evidence base.
The authors thank NESCOT for funding the analysis of these data.
