Honors Program
Document Type
Thesis
Date of this Version
10-23-2023
Citation
Duong, Helen. 2023. An Exploration of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Usage Within the Vietnamese Community in Lincoln, Nebraska. Undergraduate Honors Thesis. University of Nebraska - Lincoln.
Abstract
Lincoln, Nebraska is home to over 5,000 Vietnamese refugees and immigrants, many of whom practice complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) as a result of healing traditions passed down through family members. This thesis explores the use of CAM among the Vietnamese population of Lincoln. The study employs an analysis of the literature on CAM among Vietnamese populations and thematic analysis of interviews conducted with members of the Vietnamese community of Lincoln, NE. Interviews explore perceptions of healthcare quality and access within this community as well as investigate the link between CAM and allopathic (Western) medicine. Findings suggest that certain CAM remedies (coining, cupping, medicated oils) were more commonly used than others (acupuncture, dietary supplements) and that overall, perceptions of the healthcare system in Lincoln were mixed in terms of quality and accessibility. In addition, subjects never discussed their CAM usage with their primary health care providers. Overall, CAM usage within the Lincoln Vietnamese population is still common, and it is crucial that healthcare providers are educated about cultural forms of medicine in order to best serve their patients.
Included in
Alternative and Complementary Medicine Commons, Asian American Studies Commons, Community Health and Preventive Medicine Commons, Ethnic Studies Commons, Higher Education Commons, Medical Humanities Commons, Other Public Health Commons
Comments
Copyright Helen Duong 2023.