Guidelines for disclosure of traditional medicine use to allopathic medicine practitioners by patients who use both traditional and allopathic medicines at selected hospitals in Gauteng, South Africa

Abstract

Background Within the South African context, the concurrent use of traditional medicine (TM) and allopathic medicine (AM) is often not disclosed to allopathic medicine practitioners (AMPs) during a consultation. It is quite common for patients to consult with traditional health practitioners (THPs) prior to reaching out to AMPs for further assistance. When compared to AM, TM used by patients who use both TM and AM has on many occasions been perceived as a sub-standard treatment option. Non-disclosure of TM use by patients who use both TM and AM may render the AM prescribed by the AMPs ineffective if not detected in a timely manner. While there is literature that identifies the reasons why patients who use both TM and AM do not disclose this to AMPs during a consultation, no guidelines have been developed to focus on facilitating disclosure by these patients. Aim The aim of the research was to explore and describe the perceptions of AMPs regarding disclosure of TM use to AMPs by patients who use both TM and AM and ultimately to develop guidelines for disclosure of TM use to AMPs at selected hospitals in Gauteng. Methodology An exploratory, descriptive, qualitative research design was employed. The opinions of AMPs who met the non-probability, purposive sampling inclusion criteria were explored and described. Data was gathered through one-on-one, masked semi-structured interviews and qualitative observations of AMPs in their natural environment. The findings were triangulated and integrated with Petronio's communication privacy management (CPM) theory as a theoretical framework informing the study to help delineate correspondence concerning the phenomenon. Findings The findings of the one-on-one, semi-structured interviews reveal that the practice of AMPs in Gauteng regarding the concurrent use of TM and AM by patients they consult with is limited by their knowledge of the TM used by these patients. Secondary elements of non-disclosure include stigma, AMP attitudes, AMP training, belief systems, lack of knowledge, lack of communication skills, scoffing at TM and prejudice. The research findings prompted the development of guidelines and recommendations for stakeholders involved in patient care and management in Gauteng.