In 2007, the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) reported that 83 million U.S. adults spent $33.9 billion out of pocket on complementary/alternative medicine products, visits and classes. Of this, 15 million Americans spent $2.9 billion dollars for OTC homeopathic medicines. In the same year, a survey of nurse practitioners conducted by Retail Clinician magazine revealed that 90% of the respondents (127) felt that they needed education and information on emerging technologies, including alternative and complementary medicine; 84% of the responding NP’s responded that they were not very confident in suggesting/prescribing alternative medicines.
Given that some patients are now requesting alternative treatment options and recommendations to traditional medicines, we are asking for your input. How well prepared are you to suggest OTC medicines and what is your personal experience? Thank you in advance for taking the time to complete this questionnaire.
