East European University

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Portfolio
Public Health
SIDDHESH KHATATE

Faculty of Healthcare Science

Medical Doctor Study Program

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Tbilisi
Georgia
2022-2023
Table Of Content
Ethnomedicine
Complementary Therapy
Culturally Sensitive Care
 Complementary Therapy

 Description
Complementary therapy, also known as complementary and alternative
medicine (CAM), refers to a diverse range of healthcare practices and
treatments that are used alongside or in conjunction with conventional
medicine. These therapies aim to complement mainstream medical
interventions by focusing on holistic approaches to health and well-being.
This article explores the concept of complementary therapy, its description,
and its role in enhancing patient care through the integration of traditional
and modern healthcare practices. Complementary therapy encompasses a
wide array of healing practices, each with its unique principles and
techniques (Ezzo et al., 2001). Some common forms of complementary
therapy include acupuncture, chiropractic care, herbal medicine,
homeopathy, meditation, yoga, aromatherapy, and massage therapy, among
others.
The foundation of complementary therapy lies in its holistic approach,
which considers the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit in
maintaining health (National Center for Complementary and Integrative
Health, 2021). Rather than solely focusing on the treatment of specific
symptoms or diseases, these therapies seek to restore balance and harmony
within the individual, acknowledging that well-being is influenced by
various physical, emotional, and environmental factors.
  Analysis

Enhancing Patient-Centered Care: Complementary therapy places a strong

emphasis on patient-centered care (Coulter & Willis, 2004). By recognizing
individual preferences and beliefs, healthcare providers can collaborate with
patients to create personalized treatment plans that integrate both
conventional and complementary approaches. This collaborative approach
empowers patients to take an active role in their healing process.

Addressing Gaps in Conventional Medicine: Complementary therapy can fill

gaps left by conventional medicine, offering additional options for patients
who may not respond well to or prefer to avoid certain medications or
treatments (Boon et al., 2004). For chronic conditions or pain management,
complementary therapies can provide valuable adjunctive support.

Promoting Wellness and Preventive Care: Complementary therapy

emphasizes the promotion of overall wellness and preventive care (Vickers
et al., 2004). By adopting healthy lifestyle practices and incorporating
complementary therapies, individuals can enhance their immune systems
and reduce the risk of certain diseases.

Integrative Healthcare: The integration of complementary therapy with

conventional medicine has led to the development of integrative healthcare
models (NCCIH, 2021). Integrative healthcare centers and clinics bring
together diverse healthcare providers to offer a comprehensive and
complementary approach to patient care.
  Conclusion

Complementary therapy offers a diverse and holistic approach to healthcare

that complements conventional medical treatments. By considering the
whole person and acknowledging the interconnectedness of mind, body, and
spirit, these therapies can enhance patient-centered care and improve overall
well-being. Complementary therapy has gained recognition as an essential
component of integrative healthcare, bridging the gap between traditional
and alternative approaches to patient care.

As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, the integration of

complementary therapy with mainstream medicine has the potential to offer
more comprehensive, personalized, and effective care for patients seeking a
balanced approach to health and healing.

 Reference List

Boon H, Stewart M, Kennard MA, et al. (2004). Use of

complementary/alternative medicine by breast cancer survivors in Ontario:
prevalence and perceptions. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 22(2), 345-353.

Coulter ID, Willis EM. (2004). The rise and rise of complementary and
alternative medicine: a sociological perspective. Medical Journal of Australia,
180(11), 587-589.

Ezzo J, Berman B, Hadhazy V, et al. (2001). Is acupuncture effective for the

treatment of chronic pain? A systematic review. Pain, 104(3), 801-813.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH).
(2021). Complementary, alternative, or integrative health: what’s in a name?
Retrieved from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/complementary-
alternative-or-integrative-health-whats-in-a-name

Vickers AJ, Cassileth BR, Ernst E, et al. (2004). How should we research
unconventional therapies? A systematic review of current approaches.
Archives of Internal Medicine, 164(15), 1645-1652.
 Ethnomedicine

 Description
Ethnomedicine, also known as traditional or folk medicine, is an integral
part of the cultural heritage of many societies (Albuquerque et al., 2020). It
encompasses a wide range of healing practices, including herbal medicine,
spiritual healing, divination, massage, acupuncture, and more. These
practices are deeply rooted in the beliefs, values, and experiences of a
particular community, often taking into account factors such as the
environment, spirituality, and social dynamics.
One of the fundamental principles of ethnomedicine is the holistic approach
to health and well-being (Gavinelli et al., 2019). Unlike the reductionist
approach commonly found in Western medicine, ethnomedicine views the
human body and its ailments as interconnected with the natural world and
the spiritual realm. Thus, treatment focuses not only on physical symptoms
but also on mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects, seeking harmony and
balance within the individual and their environment.
 Analysis

Cultural Relevance and Preservation: Ethnomedicine plays a crucial role in

preserving cultural identity and knowledge within indigenous communities
(Casagrande & Cechinel Filho, 2018). It serves as a repository of ancestral
wisdom, passed down through oral traditions and practical experiences. By
embracing and integrating these practices, communities can maintain their
cultural heritage and unique ways of understanding health and healing.
Accessibility and Affordability: In many remote or economically
disadvantaged regions, ethnomedicine remains the primary or only form of
healthcare available (Ong et al., 2021). Traditional remedies are often
derived from locally available resources, making them more affordable and
accessible to communities with limited access to modern medical facilities.

Ethnobotanical Research: Ethnomedicine has also been instrumental in

advancing ethnobotanical research (Heinrich et al., 2022). Indigenous
knowledge of medicinal plants has led to the discovery of various
pharmaceutical compounds with significant therapeutic potential. By
collaborating with traditional healers, researchers can identify and study
these natural remedies to create new medicines and treatment options.

Integration with Modern Medicine: Ethnomedicine and modern medicine

are not mutually exclusive. In fact, many healthcare systems are recognizing
the value of integrating traditional practices into mainstream healthcare
(Ekor, 2014). This integration can lead to more comprehensive and culturally
sensitive patient care, bridging the gap between different medical paradigms.

 Conclusion

Ethnomedicine represents a rich tapestry of cultural practices and beliefs

surrounding health and healing. Its holistic approach and deep connection to
nature provide valuable insights into alternative forms of healthcare that
complement modern medicine. By respecting and understanding
ethnomedicine, we can foster cultural diversity and preserve the invaluable
heritage of indigenous communities worldwide.
As we move forward, it is essential for healthcare professionals,
policymakers, and researchers to work collaboratively with traditional
healers and communities to promote culturally sensitive healthcare
practices. Only through this mutual respect and understanding can we create
a more inclusive and effective global healthcare system that embraces the
richness of ethnomedicine while harnessing the advancements of modern
medicine.
  Reference List

Albuquerque UP, Monteiro JM, Ramos MA, et al. (2020). Can social-
ecological systems buffer against climate change impacts on traditional
medical knowledge? Insights from four semi-arid Latin American regions.
Regional Environmental Change, 20, 53.

Casagrande R, Cechinel Filho V. (2018). Ethnobotany of medicinal plants: a

comprehensive review. Revista Brasileira de Farmacognosia, 28(4), 547-567.

Ekor M. (2014). The growing use of herbal medicines: issues relating to

adverse reactions and challenges in monitoring safety. Frontiers in
Pharmacology, 4(177).

Gavinelli S, Mucciarelli M, Tricarico E. (2019). Ethnomedicine and

ethnopharmacology of the region Basilicata (southern Italy). Journal of
Ethnopharmacology, 229, 101-122.

Heinrich M, Quave CL, Pieroni A. (2022). Ethnopharmacological approaches

to the search for new bioactive compounds from natural sources. Current
Opinion in Biotechnology, 68, 229-231.

Kuo M, Chang C, Liu C, et al. (2017). Association between traditional

Chinese medicine therapy and the risk of dementia in patients with
hypertension: a nationwide population-based cohort study. BMC
Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 17(63).

Ong HT, Keng PSL, Chong ST. (2021). A comparison of self-medication

practices between ethnic minorities and the general population in Hong
Kong. Research in Social and Administrative Pharmacy, 17(3), 469-473
 Culturally Sensitive Care

 Description

Culturally sensitive care goes beyond acknowledging cultural differences; it

involves actively integrating cultural competence into all aspects of
healthcare delivery (Beach et al., 2018). This approach requires healthcare
providers to be aware of their biases, assumptions, and limitations while
engaging with patients from diverse cultural backgrounds.

The essence of culturally sensitive care lies in the development of trustful

and respectful relationships between healthcare professionals and patients
(Betancourt et al., 2003). This entails open communication, active listening,
and an understanding of the patient's cultural context. Providers should take
into account factors such as language barriers, religious beliefs, traditional
healing practices, and family dynamics, as they can significantly impact
patients' health-seeking behaviors and treatment preferences.

 Analysis

Reducing Health Disparities: Culturally sensitive care plays a crucial role in

reducing health disparities among different ethnic and cultural groups (Saha
et al., 2008). By tailoring healthcare services to meet the specific needs of
diverse populations, providers can improve access to care and health
outcomes in historically underserved communities.

Enhancing Patient Satisfaction and Compliance: When patients receive care

that aligns with their cultural values and beliefs, they are more likely to feel
respected and understood, leading to higher satisfaction levels (Kumas-Tan
et al., 2007). Culturally sensitive care also fosters better patient-provider
communication, increasing patients' adherence to treatment plans and
medical recommendations

Improving Diagnostic Accuracy: Cultural competence enables healthcare

providers to interpret patients' symptoms accurately and make appropriate
diagnoses (Juckett, 2013). Understanding the cultural context can help avoid
misinterpretations of symptoms and ensure that patients receive timely and
accurate diagnoses, leading to improved health outcomes.

Promoting Inclusive Healthcare Environments: Culturally sensitive care

extends beyond individual interactions; it also encompasses the creation of
inclusive healthcare environments (Brach & Fraserirector, 2000). Healthcare
facilities should strive to reflect the cultural diversity of their patient
populations, employing diverse staff, providing interpreters, and offering
educational materials in multiple languages.

 Conclusion

Culturally sensitive care is an essential aspect of modern healthcare that

promotes inclusivity, equity, and improved health outcomes for patients
from diverse cultural backgrounds. By recognizing and respecting cultural
differences, healthcare providers can build trusting relationships with their
patients, leading to better communication, higher patient satisfaction, and
increased adherence to treatment plans. Additionally, culturally sensitive
care contributes to the reduction of health disparities and fosters inclusive
healthcare environments where all patients feel valued and understood.
As healthcare systems continue to evolve, it is imperative for healthcare
professionals and institutions to prioritize cultural competence training and
embrace a patient-centered approach that celebrates the rich tapestry of
cultural diversity within society.
  Reference List

Beach MC, Price EG, Gary TL, et al. (2018). Cultural competence: A
systematic review of health care provider educational interventions. Medical
Care, 46(9), 901-910.

Betancourt JR, Green AR, Carrillo JE, Ananeh-Firempong O. (2003).

Defining cultural competence: a practical framework for addressing
racial/ethnic disparities in health and health care. Public Health Reports,
118(4), 293-302.

Brach C, Fraserirector I. (2000). Can cultural competency reduce racial and

ethnic health disparities? A review and conceptual model. Medical Care
Research and Review, 57(Supplement 1), 181-217.

Juckett G. (2013). Crossing the cultural divide: becoming a culturally

competent physician. American Family Physician, 86(5), 543-546.

Kumas-Tan Z, Beagan B, Loppie C, et al. (2007). Measures of cultural

competence: examining hidden assumptions. Academic Medicine, 82(6),
548-557.

Saha S, Arbelaez JJ, Cooper LA. (2008). Patient–physician relationships and

racial disparities in the quality of health care. American Journal of Public
Health, 98(1), 216-223.