Journal of evaluation in clinical practice
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To investigate whether patients are prioritized for joint replacement surgery on the basis of severity of osteoarthritis, pain and physical functioning. ⋯ With the expected increase in demand for joint replacement, there needs to be a re-examination of assessment procedures of patients listed for joint replacement. The use of measurement tools to assess symptoms such as pain and physical function would be one way forward.
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Although courses in acupuncture are increasingly available to doctors, little is known about educational outcomes, or the impact on doctor practices. We sought to characterize doctors who seek acupuncture training, and describe acupuncture practice and referral patterns after training. ⋯ Among doctors enrolling in an acupuncture training programme, half encountered barriers that prevented use in clinical practice. Those who did use acupuncture found it to be helpful for treatment of pain. Given the expanding pool of doctors trained in acupuncture in the USA, outcomes research is needed to further evaluate medical acupuncture practice.