Abstract
While some attention has been given to official programs for incorporating traditional healers into health care delivery, few studies have addressed the independent adoption of modern medical techniques by folk practitioners. This paper presents findings from a study of knowledge and use of oral rehydration therapy (ORT) for childhood diarrhea among four categories of Haitian healers (midwives, herbalists, shamans, and injectionists). Drawing upon survey and ethnographic data, the analysis shows how differential adoption of ORT in the folk and popular health sectors, and by type of healer, reflects the influence of gender and occupational roles. The observed patterns of innovation among the Haitian healers are discussed in terms of general principles of cultural borrowing within pluralistic health systems.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
