Factors influencing on use of herbal medicinal products in U-Thong hospital, Suphanburi province

Abstract

This research is a predictive study. The objectives are to investigate the factors which influence uses ofherbal medicine by physicians in U-Thong Hospital, Suphanburi Province. Specific sampling was used to selectthe 12 physicians while the 400 patients were selected on a stratified sampling. The responses to questions aboutknowledge, attitudes, and satisfaction levels of the factors related to the products with Cronbach alpha coefficient

The samples possessed correct knowledge about herbal medicines at a medium level (65.5%). The attitudeof patients for herbal medicine usage was a high level. The majority of the respondents were reportedly satisfiedat a high level with pattern of products. The most influential factor for the uses of herbal medicines prescribedby physicians was that the patientsû need to use herbal drugs (Odd ratio = 7.904, p<.05).

The results showed that the knowledge of physicians was 80% correct, with good attitude. The physiciansbelieved that the herbal drugs can be used instead of using modern drugs (91.7%). The greatest influence on physiciansfor prescribing herbal drugs was their safety. The factor that revealed the lowest level of attitude for physicianswas the efficacy the herbal drugs.

In summary, patient's needs were the key factor for using herbal medicine, followed by encouragementfrom their family. Empirical data exemplifying the efficacy of herbal drug should be provided to physicians.

Key words: Use of herbal medicine, Factors of using herbal medicine, Hospital, Patients, Physician