Exploring the integration of Indigenous traditional birth attendants into the western healthcare system: A qualitative case study from the Amazon of Ecuador

Background: Indigenous populations in Latin America are often at the crossroads of traditional and Western healthcare systems. Despite the cultural significance of traditional medicine, integration into Western healthcare practices remains challenging. Ecuador has been at the forefront of embracing intercultural health, aiming to merge these distinct medical paradigms effectively. This study sought to systematize the experience of integrating Indigenous traditional birth attendants (TBAs) into the Western healthcare system in the Amazon region of Ecuador, identifying the enabling factors and challenges of such an integration to enhance healthcare access and quality for Indigenous communities. Methods: Employing a qualitative case study design, the research involved conducting key informant interviews with 15 participants, comprising TBAs and midwives, in the province of Orellana, Ecuador. Thematic analysis was utilized to interpret the data, focusing on the participants' experiences, perceptions, and the operational dynamics of the integration process. Results: The study revealed initial scepticism towards integration, which was gradually overcome through mutual learning and adaptation processes, highlighting the importance of cultural sensitivity and bidirectional knowledge exchange. Integration seemed to have facilitated healthcare access, with TBAs playing a pivotal role in bridging cultural and linguistic gaps, thus enhancing Indigenous women's comfort and trust in healthcare services. Despite these advances, TBAs faced significant challenges, including financial constraints and logistical difficulties, underscoring the need for continued support and sustainable integration strategies. Conclusion: Integrating TBAs into the Western healthcare system in the Ecuadorian Amazon has shown promise in improving healthcare access for Indigenous women by fostering an environment of mutual respect and cultural sensitivity. However, to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of such integrative health models, it is imperative to address the identified challenges and support the continuous development of TBAs and healthcare professionals alike. Future research should aim to quantitatively evaluate the health outcomes of this integration and explore its scalability to other regions.