A Preliminary Survey of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) Courses in Graduate Public Health Programs

Abstract

Interest in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has grown significantly in the United States. In response, numerous medical and nursing schools are now offering CAM courses. Considering the significant overlap of many CAM and public health objectives, it seems prudent for Schools of Public Health to also consider inclusion of this content into graduate training. This study examined the current status of CAM courses in public health programs. Interviews were conduct ed with school representatives attending the American Public Health Association annual meeting in Boston (November, 2000). School representatives reported a substantial interest in CAM among students and faculty, and that many schools were currently offering or considering CAM courses.

Exploring the Role of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Public Health Practice and Training

“…One review found only a small percentage of accredited schools of public health offering CAM courses in their curricula. 19 A number of advocates have pointed to the need for more research to explore this relationship between CAM and public health and to overcome barriers that may stand in the way of their integration. [20][21][22] Indeed, one reason for this limited response may be insufficient information on the role of CAM in public health-specific contexts.…”

Developing the Complementary and Alternative Medicine Education Infrastructure: Baccalaureate Programs in the United States

“…Many medical schools in the United States now offer CAM courses in their curricula, as do numerous nursing, osteopathic, pharmacy, and public health programs (Bhattacharya, 2000;Burke et al, 2001;Dutta et al, 2003;Fenton and Morris, 2003;Saxon et al, 2004). CAM options in medical schools included elective CAM classes, the incorporation of CAM material into required courses, CAM rotations for residents, and the integration of CAM content into clinical case conferences (Carlston et al, 1997;Hui et al, 2002;Kligler et al, 2000;Wetzel et al, 1998).…”