Integrating Traditional and Alternative Medicine

Nov 20, 2024

Republic Act No. 8423: Traditional Alternative Medicine Act (TAMA)

Overview

  • Approved: December 9, 1997
  • Objective: Improve quality and delivery of health care services in the Philippines through traditional and alternative healthcare.
  • Integration: Incorporate traditional and alternative health care into the national healthcare delivery system.

Key Policies and Objectives

  • Scientific Research and Development:

    • Encourage research on traditional and alternative healthcare systems.
    • Focus on systems that impact public healthcare directly.

  • Promotion and Advocacy:

    • Promote use of safe, effective, and cost-efficient traditional and alternative healthcare modalities.
    • Ensure these modalities meet government medical practice standards.

  • Skills Training Development:

    • Develop training courses for traditional and alternative healthcare methods.

  • Standards and Guidelines:

    • Formulate ethical standards and guidelines for practice and production in traditional and alternative healthcare.
    • Cover manufacture, quality control, and marketing of healthcare materials.

  • Policy Formulation:

    • Protect indigenous and natural health resources from exploitation.
    • Strengthen traditional and alternative healthcare systems.

  • Promotion in Global and National Arenas:

    • Promote in international/national conventions with agencies like the Department of Tourism and non-government organizations.

Key Definitions

  • Traditional Medicine
  • Biomedicine
  • Alternative Healthcare Modalities
  • Herbal Medicines
  • Natural Products
  • Traditional Healers

Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Healthcare (PITAHC)

  • Research and Development:

    • Conduct R&D activities for integrating traditional and alternative healthcare into national systems.

  • Technology and Innovation:

    • Verify and transfer viable technologies with a focus on social engineering.

  • Policy and Database Development:

    • Create databases to support policy formulation and stimulate industry growth.

  • Training and Education:

    • Develop training programs for healthcare professionals and students.
    • Conduct educational activities to promote healthy living and disease prevention.

  • Resource Acquisition:

    • Obtain necessary resources, rights, privileges, and financial assistance for achieving objectives.

Impact

  • Altered the process environment of Philippine medicine.
  • Provided better regulation and recognition for traditional and alternative medicine practices.

Presenter: Ralph Emmanuel R. Olazo

Conclusion: Republic Act No. 8423, TAMA, represents a significant step in integrating traditional and alternative medicine into the health system of the Philippines, fostering innovation, safety, and accessibility in healthcare.