Traditional healing as a health care delivery system in a transcultural society

Abstract

This study analyzed the role of traditional healing as a health care delivery system in the context of a transcultural society. The perspectives, experiences and personal accounts of 90 respondents were assessed with respect to the categories used by the World Health Organization in its goal of primary health care. Focusing in the research setting that was based in the Limpopo Province, in South Africa the researcher sought to determine whether health practitioners appreciated and understood traditional healing system; if health institutions could integrate traditional healing systems; and how collaboration of the two health systems can be realized. Furthermore, drawing on a blend of qualitative and quantitative research design, the research project was intended to establish the extent to which traditional medicine equipped health practitioners with knowledge of traditional healing techniques and whether practitioners would reconcile traditional and conventional medicine. Drawing on a modified version of the structure of Leininger's Sunrise model, which states that cultural, physical and social structure dimensions are influenced by multiple factors. The research findings offer insights into the historical, social, economic, cultural, among other developments, that lead to integrationist approach in health care systems. Concluding remarks that health practitioners should pursue a policy of neutrality follow a discussion of the findings, emphasizing, the need to allow health consumers to seek traditional health care system, if they so desire. Recommendations include suggestions for further research to determine effective partnerships between traditional and conventional health care systems.