Conclusion
CIM, cancer
ONCOLOGY, CANCER
This exploratory study evaluated a novel education intervention for training oncology physicians in providing CIM advice in routine care. Providing structured CIM consultations following a blended learning training had positive effects on the perceived stress of oncology physicians but no significant effects on skill competency. Receiving blended learning was associated with higher confidence in CIM conversations and lower avoidance of CIM conversations. Oncology physicians felt well prepared for both measures—a full conversation about CIM and a simple provision of the information leaflet—even though only providing the information leaflet about recommended websites felt impersonal. The recommended websites were used by most of the patients. Therefore, providing information about recommended CIM websites could be a suitable and easy approach for oncology physicians. However, having information about the evidence base of the use of CIM therapies in cancer care, and how to communicate about CIM, can be an option to not only meet the needs of patients asking about CIM but also reduce stress for physicians.