Concern, cooperation, and coexistence in healing

Consideration for and interest in modern traditional medicine in east Africa by scientific medicine face three barriers; the cultural and social distance between the two professions; institutional restrictions and professional etiquette which limit contacts; and the scientific mentality and training. It seems, therefore, that the medical profession holds all the high cards and that any cooperation would have to be on the doctors' terms, but is their position really so superior? Most developing countries have Western-style medical systems, which are underfunded, understaffed, underpaid, and deal with rapidly expanding populations. They cannot provide a personal or adequate service because of the shortage of drugs, staff moonlighting, the need to pay for services, and the preference of the senior staff to work in the major towns. The ways in which medical services are provided alienate patients, and the cures proposed are not only outside …