Integrative Care Experience of Patients with Breast Cancer Regarding Korean Medicine Treatment: A Qualitative Study

Background: Korean Medicine (KM) has been widely used as a complementary therapy among breast cancer survivors to manage persistent symptoms. However, limited research has explored patients’ perspective and experiences regarding KM treatment. Methods: This qualitative study employed in-depth interviews with patients aged 19–75 years who had received KM treatment following anticancer therapy. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and iteratively analyzed via grounded theory methodology with the assistance of MAXQDA software. Results: A total of 15 patients, with a mean age of 51.1 years, participated in the study. Most patients had stage 1 or 2 breast cancer and had received at least two types of anticancer treatments. Five major themes emerged from the data: the decision-making process, recognition of treatment effects, patient-doctor interaction, understanding of the nature of KM treatment, and perceived individual suitability. The decision to pursue KM treatment was largely driven by a strong desire to manage persistent symptoms following anticancer therapy. Integrative treatment programs, insurance coverage, and continuous communication with KM doctors contributed to patient adherence and satisfaction. KM was perceived as a holistic and responsive care strategy that addressed both physical symptoms and psychological distress. Conclusions: KM treatment offered breast cancer survivors an interactive and patient-centered approach to managing residual symptoms after anticancer treatment. This study examined various factors—patient, practitioner, and institutional—that influence the decision to pursue KM treatment, treatment satisfaction, and the adjustment of therapeutic goals. The findings provide a theoretical basis for integrative treatment models that incorporate KM in breast cancer survivorship. Trial registration: The qualitative study protocol was prospectively registered with the International Journal of Qualitative Methods (DOI: 10.1177/1609406924124747) on April 16, 2024.