Knowledge, Perception, and Attitude of Universitas Indonesia Medical Students toward Complementary and Alternative Medicine
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Abstract
Introduction. Rate of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) use, including the Indonesian jamu, has increased in the last decade. This paper aims to identify the factors contributing to jamu development and to measure medical students’ knowledge, perception, and attitude toward CAM and jamu. Method. This is a cross-sectional study using questionnaire administered to Year 1-3 students of Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia. Results. Students generally show positive attitude towards CAM and jamu, but their knowledge is not complete. The majority (68,4%) of respondents had known about CAM and 90,4% believe CAM can be integrated into conventional medicine; 91,6% wants materials on CAM in the curricula. Almost half (48,4%) of the respondents are also users of CAM. Conclusion. Students are open to the development of CAM and the government has issued policies supporting jamu, including Jamu Scientification Program. However, more evidence is needed, including clinical trials, before jamu can integrate into mainstream medicine.
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