Abstract
Background: Despite historical rejection, traditional medicine (TM) in South Africa has deep roots. Traditional Medicine remains widely used, despite tensions in research and policy debates. Therefore, it is important to understand the nuances of communication boundaries surrounding the disclosure of TM used by patients in this context. This study explored the role of collaboration between Allopathic Medicine Practitioners (AMPs) and Traditional Health Practitioners (THPs) in the disclosure of TM use by patients in South Africa.
Approach: Fourteen purposefully sampled AMPs working in outpatient departments of district hospitals in the Gauteng Province participated in the study. This study combined descriptive analysis with a qualitative strategy. The study was conceptualised by the main researcher in close collaboration with the research supervisors who are experts in the field of health Sciences and traditional medicine research. The individual face-to-face interviews were conducted in English by the researcher. Responses were compiled and transcribed using thematic analysis in ATLASti.
Results: The descriptive analysis identified two themes, which included collaboration and its impact on healthcare outcomes for patients who use TM. Though the AMPs understood that there is a need for them to communicate and coordinate with THPs, they cited concerns about the referral of patients, training of THPs, regulation of THPs and sharing of patient care protocols among AMPs and THPs. The impact on healthcare outcomes included the impact of communication dynamics on healthcare outcomes, patient satisfaction, and the integration of TM into mainstream healthcare systems. The need for better communication and integration of traditional medicine is recognized in this study, which emphasises the need for improved communication and collaboration between THPs and AMPs to encourage patients to disclose their TM use to AMPs. Therefore, public health education, transparent communication, recognition of traditional practices, and information about traditional medicine's benefits and drawbacks are recommended.
Implications: The study underscores the importance of bridging the gap between traditional and allopathic healthcare systems through improved communication, education, and collaboration. By embracing a more inclusive and integrative approach to healthcare, stakeholders can work together to promote the well-being of all individuals and communities in South Africa.
Keywords: Privacy, disclosure, public health, qualitative interviews, thematic analysis