WORKSHOP Saturday, May 27, 10:30-12:30
"Problem Corner": Solving CAM Clinical Research Challenges
for the Beginner
Speakers: Sunita Vohra, MD, Kathi Kemper, MD, Kristie
Cramer, MS, George Lewith, DM, FRCP, Marja Verhoef, PhD
Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)
researchers face unique challenges. To illustrate, when studying natural
health products (NHP), many issues including heterogeneity and poorly
elucidated mechanism of action can make study design challenging. When
studying CAM practices, issues related to individualized therapies or
devising appropriate controls/sham procedures similarly complicate research
design. In this workshop, we will undertake a methodological "problem
corner" intended for new investigators who are planning/conducting CAM
research who have encountered challenges.
Participants are asked to come prepared with
a list of issues and problems they have faced or anticipate facing while
conducting CAM research. Problems related to conducting clinical research
that involves NHPs or CAM practices, educational research, clinical
research, surveys, ethics, safety, and/or regulatory oversight are appropriate
and encouraged. The workshop will start with participants generating
a list of problems they have encountered or anticipate encountering
while conducting CAM research. Guided by the facilitators, participants
will then work together to prioritize this list for the purpose of discussion
during the workshop. The facilitators and participants will work together
using their expertise and experience to develop solutions and strategies
for resolving these issues. This workshop is intended to provide a venue
where knowledge and approaches in regards to conducting CAM research
can be exchanged and built upon.