Saturday, 9 February 2013

Strengthening collaboration between traditional health practitioners and bio-medical health practitioners



A recent study by URAA found that THPs are first point of contact for treatment (most trusted by their clients) in most rural communities and this provide an opportunity for THPs to provide services such as HTC/HCT if their capacity is developed and provided with testing supplies.
The study also found that there are still lots of mistrust by BHPs on roles of THPs which result in lack of reciprocal referrals between THPs and BHPs. However, there can be opportunities to promote collaboration if the referral is not centered on bio-medicalization: i.e. focusing on non scientific issues like counseling, and adherence support.
 The nurses share  a moment of learning with THPs & TBAs at Iganga
Need for exploring how THPs can effectively collaborate with BHPs in key HIV prevention strategies such as Male Circumcision and PMTCT.
Capacity of TBAs should be built to provide services beyond delivery to include comprehensive reproductive service provision which can be effective in preventing maternal deaths in rural areas.
In order to improve the relationship between THPs and BHPs it is critical to identify where exactly do THPs fit in the wider heath management model for the particular country. For example, community health workers are clearly part of specific level in the health management model and therefore 

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