Korean Integrated Care : Cooperation between Modern and Traditional Medicines

Abstract

Introduction : In spite of widespread practice of modern (western) medicine, many local residents, especially the elderly still resort to traditional (oriental) medicine in a variety of range. It is necessary to review patient-centered integrated care of both sides of medicines to increase the therapeutic effect. Furthermore, the increasing trend of herbal drugs in recent years, there is a growing risk for abuse of medicines. Description of policy context and objective : To promote the introduction and diffusion of patient-centered integrated healthcare between modern and traditional medicines. Target population: Inpatients who experience collaborative medical treatments from modern and traditional medicines at a hospital Highlights(innovation, impact and outcomes) : 1. Improved patient satisfaction and treatment effectiveness: Preceding studies show that hyperthermia therapy, acupuncture treatment, and prescription of herbal medicine are effective in reducing side effects of radiotherapy and angiogenesis inhibition. 2. Decreased toxicity: Some herbal medicines reduce the toxicity of anti-estrogen drugs. 3. Hyperthermia and acupuncture are effective for pain relief: Injury or arthritis, especially in cold patterns where the pain naturally feels better with the application of heat. 4. Higher quality of care: Providing quality services by strengthening superior areas in both fields Comments on transferability : In countries where traditional medicine is used as treatment in operation, it can effectively manage treatments of people with chronic diseases. Conclusions : Typically, traditional medicine is used to provide an alternative way of treatment. Partly it was confirmed that the collaborative integrated care complement the shortcomings of each other and it improves the treatment effect. Although Korea's National Health Insurance does not accept such integrated cares yet, it should them into serious consideration by way of further research from a national perspective.