Evaluation of knowledge, attitudes, behaviors and perceived benefit levels after treatment among individuals applying to the traditional and complementary medicine (GETAT) practice center at alanya training and research hospital

In recent years, expectations from healthcare services have shifted toward more person-centered and holistic approaches. Within this context, traditional and complementary medicine (GETAT) practices have gained increasing importance and can no longer be overlooked in modern healthcare. This study aimed to evaluate the levels of knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of individuals applying to the Traditional and Complementary Medicine Practice Center of Alanya Training and Research Hospital and to determine their perceived benefit after these interventions. This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted between November 2023 and February 2024 with voluntary participants without communication barriers who applied to the GETAT Practice Center. A structured questionnaire was used to assess sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and perceived benefit levels. Additionally, the Traditional and Complementary Medicine Attitude Scale (13 items, 4-point Likert) and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) were applied. Data were analyzed using Jamovi (v 2.6.25) statistical software. Among participants, 58% considered GETAT a supportive method, and the most frequently preferred intervention was cupping therapy (66%). The majority of first-time applicants sought cupping therapy (74,5%). The mean attitude scale score was 23,9±5,1. Participants perceptions regarding GETAT significantly affected their attitude scale scores (p<0,05). Post-intervention VAS scores were significantly lower compared to baseline (p=0,001). The perceived benefit level of leech therapy and cupping therapy was higher than that of prolotherapy. The findings indicate that public awareness and acceptance of GETAT practices are increasing and that individuals perceive meaningful benefits from these interventions. These results provide valuable evidence supporting the effective and safe integration and dissemination of traditional and complementary medicine into healthcare services on a scientific basis. Keywords: Complementary therapies, medicine traditional, health knowledge, attitudes, practice