LAUSR

BACKGROUND An increasing number of people in the Republic of Georgia use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). CAM has long been practiced in the country, but is not currently part of the formal medical system. The aim of this study was to explore patients' CAM use and their perspectives of CAM complementation of existing services in Georgia's health care system. METHODOLOGY We conducted a qualitative study exploring patient needs and wants by performing in-depth, contextual interviews with patients using CAM. We recruited participants at CAM clinics and collected data until we reached saturation. A thematic analysis involving line by line coding explored perspectives and allowed us to formulate recommendations of CAM integration in Georgia. RESULTS Study participants voiced that they pursued cure beyond symptom relief; their disappointment in that regard with conventional medicine in Georgia directed them towards CAM as a safe and effective care setting. Most sought natural approaches as a sustained approach to their health and perceived CAM as empathetic therapeutic and preventive space. Participants were in favor of integration of CAM with conventional health services through government support and regulation. They saw coverage of payments for CAM visits and treatments as important aspect for an effective and sustainable integration. CONCLUSION Patients favor an integration of CAM into Georgia's current healthcare systems to ensure CAM's broad availability as well as effective regulation and financing, including coverage by health insurance.