Exploring the knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of Homoeopathy and the Ukuba Nesibindi Homoeopathic Community Centre (UNHCC) in the Warwick Junction community

Abstract

Introduction The South African public healthcare system is maintained as an under-resourced and overburdened area of the economy. This has been further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic which continues to be a source of concern. CAM usage has increased exponentially, with homoeopathy being the second- fastest growing medicinal modality globally. With that said, the assumption would be that homoeopathy is growing in acceptance and understanding. However, research indicates a moderate knowledge of homoeopathy in South African communities, particularly in African communities, which make up 80% of the total South African population. Aim of the study The aim of this study was to explore the knowledge, attitudes and perceptions held by the Warwick Junction community members towards homoeopathy and the Ukuba Nesibindi Homoeopathic Community Centre (UNHCC). This was to understand the notable lack of knowledge about homoeopathy and the UNHCC, which is the pioneering satellite clinic under the auspices of the Durban University of Technology, as well as factors influencing this lack of progress in knowledge, despite the increasing need for healthcare. Methodology A qualitative, explorative and phenomenological design was employed in this study. Qualitative research was considered the most appropriate method to collect primary data to ensure an in-depth understanding of the participants’ knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of homoeopathy and the Ukuba Nesibindi Homoeopathic Community Centre (UNHCC). This design also fostered freedom of expression without the hinderance created by a selection of responses as with a survey. Thirteen participants from the Warwick junction community were interviewed. Results It was discovered that 23% of the participants were familiar with homoeopathy and 45% understood the functioning of the UNHCC. Of the 23% that were familiar with homoeopathy, it was viewed as a natural but foreign medicinal modality and not well understood. Of the 45% that understood the purpose of the UNHCC facility, there was an understanding that the facility was reserved for HIV testing and counselling. The lack of knowledge regarding homoeopathy and the UNHCC can be ascribed to the lack of effective marketing of the facility, linked to commercial advertising legislations; the ambiguous nomenclature ’Ukuba Nesibindi’ and the physical location of the facility. The generally poor growth in knowledge of homoeopathy can also be attributed to the increase in conventional medicine through mass production of pharmaceutical drugs and polypharmacy for financial gain, with no parallel strategy evident in the distribution of CAM.