Table 2 Overview of key research in the CAMbrella research roadmap

CAM prevalence

To obtain valid, comparable and comprehensive data on prevalence of CAM use

Structured EU-wide approach

Cross-sectional studies

Using standard definitions, develop standardized questionnaires for surveys in European languages

Needs and attitudes of citizens and providers

To address issues that are relevant to the EU public

Obtain data on how the diversity of the EU influences attitudes about CAM

Cross-sectional studies; qualitative interview studies

Involve the public as stakeholders in project development

CAM safety

To allow the risks of CAM to be estimated

Address safety in studies and establish an EU-wide monitoring system

Observational studies; clinical studies; single case studies

Clarify safety terminology; address safety in CAM studies where appropriate

Comparative effectiveness research

To support clinical and health care policy decision making with suitable research data

Future research should primarily investigate CAM in real-world settings

Comparative effectiveness research, including pragmatic clinical trials

Compare meaningful alternatives; include health economic evaluations

Effects of context and meaning

Understand the extent to which the clinical effects of CAM are due to non-specific treatment effects

Assess the nature, size and influence of potential non-specific treatment effects

Mixed methods (qualitative studies within clinical trials)

Research question is not specific to CAM, but of general interest

Models of CAM integration

To investigate different models of CAM integration

Describe, evaluate and further develop models for CAM integration

Mixed methods

Include the public’s view on models of CAM integration