IMPROVING SURGICAL CARE IN RURAL SOUTH AFRICA: EXPLORING COLLABORATIONS BETWEEN INDIGENOUS AND FORMAL HEALTH SECTORS neha_sangana@yahoo.com

 

IMPROVING SURGICAL CARE IN RURAL SOUTH AFRICA: EXPLORING COLLABORATIONS BETWEEN INDIGENOUS AND FORMAL HEALTH SECTORS

5

United States

Oral or Poster

South Africans seek healthcare with both the indigenous and formal health sector, often simultaneously. Traditionally, these sectors are siloed from one another leaving healthcare disjointed. The primary aim of this study was to bring stakeholders together to explore perspectives on collaborative solutions to improve surgical care.

A phenomenological qualitative study using focus group discussions and a multistakeholder workshop was done. Study participants included indigenous knowledge healers (IKH), physicians, nurses, clinical managers, community members, and community health workers. Perceived barriers and facilitators to collaboration, and solutions improving care within a dual health system were explored.

All stakeholders agreed that IKH could play a role in improving surgical care. Enablers included bilateral referral systems and cross-cultural education. Barriers were poor IKH internal governance, and the lack of communication and transparency between sectors.

Person-centered care includes acknowledging that many persons with surgical conditions will seek care in both the indigenous and formal medical sectors. Improving communication and referrals between the sectors will streamline care ultimately improving health and well-being.