Use of Alternative Medicine Among Outpatients in Dermatology and Primary Care Clinics

Use of Alternative Medicine Among Outpatients in Dermatology and Primary Care Clinics

This study is to assess the practice of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for skin related conditions among patients in the Primary Care and Dermatology clinics.

This study aims to determine the prevalence and characteristics complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) usage among Primary Care and Dermatology clinic patients through the use of an anonymous, self-completed written survey. This survey will assess the prevalence and regularity of CAM usage (with and without concurrent use of allopathic therapies), the reasons for CAM usage, perceived success with CAM usage, and socioeconomic status, in both Dermatology and Primary Care patients. We will then compare these elements of CAM usage between the two clinic patient populations.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18 years or older
• Presents for a clinic appointment with a dermatologist or primary care physician
• English-speaking

Exclusion Criteria:

• Less than 18 years or older
• Non-English speaking