The Lack of Communication

• Patients may hesitate to reveal their use of or questions regarding CAM to their PCP for fear they may be dismissed or be characterized as unrealistic, ungrateful, or gullible. Due to the idea that all CAMs are natural and safe, patients may not feel it

• Physicians may hesitate to communicate regarding CAM due to their overall lack of knowledge and to the lack of credible evidence

• The responsibility falls on the physician to open a safe, respectful, accepting discussion regarding alternative therapies. This begins be creating a strong physician-patient relationship and is founded upon ideas of acceptance and respect.