Recorded presentation

Theresa M. Chase, ND, RN, Patient and Family Education, Craig Hospital, 3425 S. Clarkson Street, Englewood, CO 80113, 303 789 8211, tmchase@craighospital.org and CA Brooks, MSHA, Research, Craig Hospital, 3425 S. Clarkson Street, Englewood, CO 80113.

Despite the growing interest in Complementary and Alternative Therapies (CAM) among the American public, CAM treatments are slow to be introduced in traditional health care settings. Typically, American hospitals and health care centers, including those specializing in rehabilitation, are grounded in scientifically-based Western medicine practices and are slow to include CAM techniques and integrate them in their programs. However, over the last decade Americans have embraced these holistic practices in ever increasing numbers. The growing interest and demand by consumers is part of the impetus for inclusion of CAM therapies into the once conventional setting of rehabilitation. Likewise the number of scientific studies demonstrating the usefulness of specific treatments such as acupuncture and massage in health care settings is growing. Even though on an individual basis, we may welcome change and live by the Latin imperative – “Carpe Diem” Seize the day – organizations usually do not. However, organizational change can be orchestrated in a way to meet the evolving needs of clients and staff alike to produce a balanced outcome appreciated by both. This presentation will provide an overview of the efforts of one rehabilitation facility to respond to client demand for CAM therapies as part of their rehabilitation program. Lessons learned are applicable to almost all health care settings. Successful strategies for educating staff and clients alike, developed over the last four years by an interdisciplinary committee will be articulated. This will include ideas for identifying appropriate modalities and recommendations for recruiting reputable CAM practitioners.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe strategies for successfully identifying and integrating appropriate CAM modalities into rehabilitation settings
• Describe the process for recruiting reputable CAM practitioners
• Provide template for educating staff and clients

Keywords: Alternative Medicine/Therapies, Organizational Change

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

Recorded presentation