Early Abstract:
Introduction: South Africans use both indigenous and formal healthcare to address surgical conditions, however these sectors are often siloed leaving care for the individual disjointed. This study aimed to improve person-centered surgical care in rural South Africa by identifying community-prioritized surgical conditions and exploring indigenous and formal healthcare stakeholder buy-in to collaborative solutions.
Methods: This was a phenomenological qualitative study using focus group discussions and a multistakeholder workshop. Study participants included indigenous knowledge healers (IKH), clinic and hospital staff, community members, and community health workers. Perceived barriers and facilitators to collaboration and solutions improving care within a dual health system were explored. Data was collected and analyzed using Rapid Research, Evaluation and Appraisal Lab (RREAL) sheets.
Results: Three focus group discussions of different stakeholder groups were held with 5-8 participants each (18 participants total). 33 participants attended the multistakeholder workshop. All stakeholders agreed that IKH could play a role in improving surgical care. Collaborative solutions included bilateral referral systems and cross-sector education. Barriers included lack of communication and transparency between indigenous and formal health sectors.
Conclusion: Person-centered care includes acknowledging that many persons with surgical conditions will seek care in both the indigenous and formal health sectors. Improving communication and referrals between the sectors may streamline care and improve health outcomes and community well-being.
Keywords: collaboration, delays to care, global health, global surgery, Indigenous health, South Africa, surgery, surgical access, traditional medicine, rural health.
