Critical Thinking and Complementary and Alternative Medicine Education at a Small University: Program Evolution and Lessons Learned

Patient use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has resulted in diverse educational initiatives in universities around the country. This article describes the creation of a CAM continuing-education pilot program delivered to a diverse group of practicing medical professionals in Alaska. Program strengths include emphasis on critical thinking strategies, identification of cultural barriers, a multidisciplinary medical team approach, and program development with limited funding. A minor degree in CAM evolved from the lessons learned with the continuing education program. The minor degree in CAM is in its pilot phase and is evidence based. The University of Alaska at Anchorage is exploring the minor in CAM as an online offering to graduate students seeking master’s degrees in public health and potentially as part of degree completion programs. The online approach will make the minor degree accessible to Alaskans across the state and in remote villages.