Quality aspects of complementary medicine experiences from the work of a quality circle of general practitioners

Objectives: This article reports the results of a quality circle work, carr ied out by physicians using complementary medicine. It illustrates the prob lems occurring in this subject and summa rites characteristics of the dal l y work in relation to quality aspects. Patient characteristics were investi gated; examples of mistakes in daily care are reported. Methods: The report is based on the two moderators' subjective impressions, on analysis of att endance lists, case reports, protocols, and surveys. Results: The quality c ircle was started in October 1994 and consists of a group of about 16 physi cians, mainly general practitioners. Several objectives mentioned in offici al guidelines for quality circles could not be achieved, for example, the e valuation of results, analysis and assessment of the own performance accord ing to established criteria, the degree to which published guidelines were followed, the development and implementation of problem-solving strategies. The quality circle was mainly a platform for exchange and continuing medic al education. It also was the basis for an empirical study. Conclusion: The continuing interest of patients in complementary medicine should motivate physicians to systematically evaluate these therapies. Participants of qual ity circles should prepare themselves extensively for the meetings. They sh ould take measures to keep up-to-date with the current medical knowledge. E lements and objectives aiming at a higher quality standard can be examined and implemented in routine practice work. Research results should be integr ated into the daily practice. Furthermore, academic or other independent in stitutions should carry out experimental research into traditional compleme ntary therapies.