Complementary and integrative medicine therapy in a hematology division: a retrospective study

Complementary and integrative medicine (CIM) use is increasing among patients with hematologic diseases, yet determinants of CIM receipt in hematology settings are poorly characterized. We aimed to characterize hematologic patients receiving CIM. Adults with ≥5 annual visits in a tertiary hematology division were included in a retrospective study (2021-2024). Electronic medical record data were analyzed. Staff completed a questionnaire assessing referral practices. The primary outcome was receipt of CIM. Predictors of CIM use and adherence were analyzed with multivariable logistic and Poisson regression analyses. Of 391 patients, 138 (35%) received CIM, mainly younger, female, and hemato-oncologic patients. Among 23 staff respondents, 56% referred 1-5 patients monthly. Pain, anxiety/depression, and neuropathy were main referral indications, with high perceived effectiveness and no reported contraindications. CIM receipt is common in hematologic malignancies and associated with demographic and disease-related factors. Structured referral pathways and culturally adapted communication may enhance integrative hematology care.