Abstract
Introduction: This study is a qualitative study based on 1:1 semi-structured interviews designed to explore the treatment selection process and factors that influence the treatment decisions of patients with spinal pain undergoing surgery or Korean medicine treatment. Methods: Patients admitted to a Korean hospital for treatment after either undergoing or receiving a recommendation for spinal surgery, aged 19–74 years, able to communicate in Korean, and who provided informed consent were invited to participate in the study. Of the 15 participants selected, 9 underwent spinal surgery, while 6 had spinal surgery recommended but did not choose to have it. Results: Three main themes emerged from the interviews: positive factors for Korean medicine; positive factors for surgery; difficulties in decision-making. Recommendations by and cases of people around them had the greatest influence on patients who chose Korean medicine treatment (their own situation). Patients who chose surgery tended to be influenced by their physicians, whose opinions had the greatest influence on their choice. Conclusions: Treatment decisions are influenced by: recommendation by or cases of personal acquaintances; fear of surgery; trust in physician; physician’s competence; experience of pain; lack of information; patient’s situation. The factors that influence the choice of Korean medicine treatment and surgery clearly differ. The findings would be useful for clinicians and patients who must decide between various treatments modality recommendations.
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2022
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