Knowledge, attitude, utilisation and satisfaction of traditional Chinese medicine in Hong Kong

Abstract

Purpose Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) had a long history and has been widely practiced worldwide. TCM includes acupunctures, herbal medicine and chiropractic. However, limited studies examined the relationship between knowledge, attitude, utilisation and satisfaction of TCM among the Hong Kong general public. This study has developed a research model which aims to examine the relationship between knowledge, attitude, utilisation and satisfaction of TCM in Hong Kong by using partial least square structural equation model. Design/methodology/approach An online-based questionnaire was distributed by using convenience sampling. The questionnaire consisted of five parts to collect the data regarding the knowledge, attitude, utilisation and satisfaction of TCM of respondents. The reflective measurement model and structural model were examined with SmartPLS 3.0 statistical software. Findings A total of 131 respondents completed the survey, and all data were valid after data screening and cleaning. Around 60% of the participants received TCM information from their friends and family members, and 42% from the internet. Likewise, there is positive relationship from the knowledge of TCM to the utilisation, from the attitude to the utilisation and from the utilisation of TCM to the satisfaction. However, the positive relationship of knowledge regarding TCM and attitude is not proven. A t-test and one-way analysis of variance showed no significant differences between gender and age groups on each measurement items. Originality/value This paper provides insights for researchers and policymakers to understand the significance of attitude and perception of the benefits of treatments in the use of TCM. The positive experience of TCM from other people is essential for enhancing the willingness to use TCM while education is also fundamental in promoting TCM to the public.