Abstract:

Objectives: To explore the views and intention to use Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) among  non-users. Methods: Qualitative study incorporating open-ended questionnaire of 20 non-users in Malaysia. The study was outlined by a Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) approach to examine the hypothetical pathway between beliefs and intentions to use TCM within the context of minor and major medical treatment. The study sample for the qualitative study was chosen by purposive sampling. Research participants for the current study were recruited on the basis of having knowledge about TCM, never seek treatment from TCM professional and age above 18 years old. Data analysis was undertaken using a Framework Approach and was informed by TPB. Results: All participants were aware of the benefits or advantages of TCM. However, majority reported to seek TCM medical merely for acute problem and whenever the modern treatment fail to heal the disease. Participants reported a wide range of barriers to TCM medical including both internal (psychology) and external (environment and time). The study participants also lacked support and advice from family members to use medical. Conclusions: A focus on the effectiveness of TCM to encourage utilisation of TCM medical for illness should be accopanied by consistent information about the positive evidience sources of TCM medical for non-users. More research is required to how overcome barriers and to understand why postive attitude does not guarantee positive intention. Prioritisation on image and identity of TCM as contributing factor to attitude may encourage positive intention to TCM medical. Involvements from the media are possible approaches to consider for a proposed utilization in TCM medical treatment.