ABSTRACT
Previous studies undertaken in a number of countries have investigated the use of complementary medicine as a treatment option by general practitioners (GPs). Researchers have examined the demographic details of GPs to discover whether there are any noticeable characteristics that influence CAM use. Younger GPs have demonstrated a more positive attitude towards CAM, more use of CAM, and greater inclination to refer their patients to CAM practitioners than their older colleagues (Visser and Peters, 1990; Berman et al., 1998). It has also been suggested that they have greater interest in receiving training in at least one CAM therapy (Franklin, 1992) and to refer to nonmedically qualified practitioners (Wharton and Lewith, 1986). The type of general practice has also been found by some to relate to the practice of CAM; Verhoef and Sutherland (1995) found that those GPs working alone were more likely to refer to CAM therapists than those in a group practice, as did Anderson and Anderson (1987). Practitioners working alone may be more individualistic and more likely to try unorthodox treatment options, or they may be subject to less peer influence. Gender differences have
been reported by some (Verhoef and Sutherland, 1995; White et al., 1997), but not by others (Hadley, 1988), while referral has been reported to be more likely if the GP has personally used CAM (Reilly, 1983).
