Qualitative study on Bhutanese patients’ perceptions of modern, Sowa Rigpa, and local medicine

Abstract

Abstract Modern society has seen a rapid shift toward biomedicalization. However, there is now an increasing trend of using complementary and alternative medicine for holistic treatment. Bhutan promotes the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of its citizens through its universal healthcare system, production of herbal medicines, Buddhist practices, and governmental policy of Gross National Happiness. Patients can choose one or a combination of modern, traditional (Sowa Rigpa), and local healing practices for treatment. For this study, in-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted among randomly-selected patients (N = 20). Interviewees were categorized based on demographics, past medical experiences, upbringings, and expectations for medical care providers. All participants were found to rely on modern medicine (n = 20), many used traditional medicine (n = 13), and some had experienced local medicine (n = 9). Only a fraction had solely relied on modern medicine (n = 5) and a select number relied on all three practices for treatment (n = 7). In addition to determining patients' reliance on one or a combination of healing practices, this study identified their perceptions of the strengths and limitations of each method. To this end, the participants' reasonings for relying on certain practices over others for particular ailments were investigated. A key finding was that patients believe the flexibility in the reliance of one or multiple treatment types optimize their health and facilitate access to medical resources. Further collaborations between modern medical practitioners and complementary and alternative medical care providers are necessary to advance the integration of these three practices and ensure patient well-being. Key messages Bhutan provides universal health coverage to access basic public health services in both modern and traditional medicine, giving patients the freedom to choose their own modes of treatment. Referrals and communication between modern medical practitioners and complementary and alternative medical care providers are necessary to ensure patient health and well-being.