Notes on the Role of Traditional Medicine in Modern Healthcare System

Introduction

• Welcome and Opening Remarks
  • Hosted by NRF Software.
  • Theme: Role of Traditional Medicine in Modern Healthcare.
  • Panelists:
    • Prof. Mamza Motive
    • Prof. Neba Galeni
    • Mr. Daniel Dima
• Panelists' Backgrounds:
  • Prof. Mamza Motive:
    • Associate Professor and HOD in Pharmacology at Rose University.
    • Focus: Pharmacology and toxicology of medicinal plants.
    • Passion for decolonization of pharmacology education.
    • Advocates for coexistence between traditional and modern medicine.
  • Prof. Neba Galeni:
    • Research Professor at University of KwaZulu-Natal.
    • Expertise in immunology, infectious diseases, and traditional medicine.
    • Involved in the interim traditional health practitioner council of South Africa.
  • Mr. Daniel Dima:
    • CEO at Cape Bio Technologies.
    • Specializes in structural biology and protein engineering.
    • Focus on responsible entrepreneurship and education.

Presentation by Prof. Mamza Motive

• Topic: Concurrent Use of African Traditional Medicine and Conventional Medicine.
• Key Points:
  • Traditional medicine is widely used across different demographics in South Africa.
  • Studies indicate 72% of black South Africans use traditional medicine.
  • Perception of traditional medicine varies among patients, healthcare providers, and traditional healers.
  • Patients often do not disclose their use of traditional medicine to healthcare providers due to fear of judgment.
  • Healthcare providers predominantly discuss harmful effects of traditional medicines rather than beneficial effects.
  • Need for improved communication and policy development for integration of traditional and modern medicine.
• Findings from 2019 Study:
  • Majority of patients believe traditional medicine works alongside conventional medicine.
  • There is a lack of guidelines for healthcare providers on how to handle patients using both medicine types.

Presentation by Prof. Neba Galeni

• Topic: Developing Solutions for South Africa's Priority Diseases Using Indigenous Knowledge Systems.
• Key Points:
  • South Africa faces multiple health challenges, including HIV, TB, and diabetes.
  • Importance of traditional healers in healthcare delivery and disease management.
  • The need for collaborative efforts between traditional healers and the healthcare system.
  • Discussion on reverse pharmacology and utilizing traditional medicines for drug development.
  • Examples of successful integration of traditional medicine in healthcare initiatives.

Presentation by Mr. Daniel Dima

• Topic: Leveraging Fourth Industrial Revolution Tools for Indigenous Knowledge Systems Advancements.
• Key Points:
  • Importance of integrating AI and bioinformatics in traditional medicine research.
  • The workflow of traditional medicine product development.
  • Need for collaboration between scientists and traditional knowledge holders.
  • Emphasizes the importance of protecting intellectual property of indigenous knowledge.

Discussion Highlights

• Integration of Traditional and Modern Medicine:
  • Importance of open-mindedness in accepting traditional medicine as part of healthcare.
  • Historical context and contributions of African traditional medicine.
  • Current government efforts to regulate and integrate traditional medicine into the healthcare system.
• Challenges:
  • Lack of policies and guidelines for healthcare providers when dealing with traditional medicine.
  • Need for education and training of healthcare providers on traditional medicine.
• Audience Engagement:
  • Multiple questions raised on integration, perceptions, and policies concerning traditional medicine.

Conclusion

• Key Recommendations:
  • Encourage patients to disclose traditional medicine use to healthcare providers.
  • Foster collaboration between healthcare workers and traditional healers.
  • Develop clear policies for integration of traditional medicine in public health systems.
  • Continue research and dialogue around traditional medicine and its role in modern healthcare.

Note: Ensure to follow up with resources and studies mentioned for further understanding of traditional medicine's impact on modern healthcare.