[Evaluating traditional Chinese medicine as applied in the Clinic at Steigerwald. Part 1: Methods of assessment]

Abstract

Background: In the 'Klinik am Steigerwald' (Gerolzhofen, Germany), founded in 1996 and providing accommodation for 44 patients, European physicians apply methods of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).

Objective: To develop an assessment system which is suitable for the evaluation of therapies, can be integrated into daily routine, takes into account the particular therapeutic approach of the hospital, and promotes quality management.

Patients and methods: The hospital admits all kinds of patients with chronic and often therapy-resistant diseases. Patients are primarily treated with Chinese phytotherapy and acupuncture. Methods of classical naturopathy and Western medicine complete the therapeutic range. All admitted patients are to be assessed. Exclusions are made according to a previously determined set of criteria. A written consent is mandatory.

Results: The assessment system comprises 3 questionnaires; 2 to be filled in by the patients, and 1 to document the physician's evaluation of the therapeutic success, based on his final consultation of the patient. Between January 2000 and December 2004, 2,021 patients were admitted to the hospital and followed-up until 2006. Of these, 1,609 patients met the inclusion criteria; 1,282 of these, again, agreed to participate in the interviewing process. The questionnaires of 1,110 patients were eligible for analysis. The present paper describes the methods of assessment. Its results are to be published in a future paper.

Conclusion: Over the past 7 years, the assessment system has shown to be effective and appropriate to evaluate the type of therapy in question. It is intended to shorten the questionnaires.