The Interactions and Inherent Relationships Between Alternative Health Care Providers and Their Patients
Abstract
The interactions and inherent relationships between alternative health care providers and their patients was explored using a descriptive qualitative approach. The purpose of the study was to describe and identify both common and prominent themes in the nature of the interactions and relationships. A purposive sampling of providers resulted in 3 provider participants of differing practices: a doctor of chiropractic, a doctor of acupunture/Traditional Chinese medicine, and a practitioner of healing touch. A convenience sampling of established patients yielded a 12 patient participants, four per provider. Data were generated from provider interviews, patient interviews, and observed patient-provider sessions. Data analysis utilized the qualitative methods of theme categorizing and clustering as described by Burns and Grove. Five theme categories emerged from the data: (1) Health Promotion/Illness Prevention, (2) Relaxation/CombatingStress, (3) Provider as Mechanism of Treatment, (4) Friendship, (4A) Listening, (4B) Small Talk, (4C) Openness/Trusting/Caring, (5) Holism. Significant statements were extrapolated to illustrate the arrival of the theme categories and clusters. The findings of this study demonstrate that the themes are characteristics of the interactions and relationships between alternative providers and their patients and are components contributing to the therapeutic process.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 13, 1996
- Accession Number
- AD1011550
Entities
People
- Patricia A. Smith
Organizations
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences