Integration Of Traditional Medicine Research Articles

Factors Influencing the Integration of Traditional Medicine and Mainstream Medicine in Mental Health Services in West Africa: A Systematic Review Using Narrative Synthesis.

This study explored the enablers and obstacles to the integration of traditional medicine and mainstream medicine in mental health services in West Africa. This study is a systematic review conducted in accordance with the relevant parts of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analyses. Keywords searches were done in databases, and other reference lists were also searched. The Rainbow model of integrated care and a thematic analysis framework were used to account for the factors influencing the integration of traditional medicine and mainstream medicine in mental health services in West Africa. A total of 12 studies met the eligibility criteria after the evaluation of 6413 articles from databases and reference lists. The themes of: policy and implementation; different conceptualisation of mental health/referrals; trust issues, and education and training, were enablers or obstacles of integration depending on how they worked to facilitate or hinder integration. There was an indication of little integration of TM and MM at the macro, meso and micro levels in mental health services in West Africa. Though the study does cover all the West African states evenly, it is recommended that policy-makers and stakeholders interested in integration should ensure integration activities, especially policies, cut across all the levels of the rainbow model of integrated care and are planned and aligned at the macro, meso and micro levels instead of using ad hoc measures, informal initiatives or placing TM services in MM mental health services, which do not amount to integration.

Integration of traditional, complementary, and alternative medicine with modern biomedicine: the scientization, evidence, and challenges for integration of traditional Chinese medicine

Traditional medicine has garnered significant global recognition, with an estimated 80% of the global population using it. Therefore, it is essential to fully understand the integration of traditional medicines into current healthcare systems. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the standard process to modernize traditional medicine scientifically in the context of modern biomedicine, further termed here as “scientization”. Specifically, we aim to summarize the advancements made in understanding the efficacy, effectiveness, and underlying mechanisms of herbal medicine. We also examined the transition from experience- to evidence-based medicine during acupuncture. Furthermore, we explore the development of universal safety and quality control standards. Finally, we discuss international trade and export markets for Chinese medical products. The development and integration of traditional medicine have allowed it to further improve human health, resulting in a more comprehensive health solution for the global population.

The Role of Thai Local Herbs and Ingredients in Promoting Post-Pandemic Wellness and Medical Tourism for Sustainable Development Goal 3: A Critical Review of the Literature

Objective: To investigate the therapeutic properties of local Thai herbs and ingredients, assess the scientific evidence on Thai traditional medicine, explore the cultural significance and traditional knowledge, analyze the potential of Thai herbs in post-pandemic wellness, and examine the role of Thai traditional medicine in medical tourism and its contribution to SDG 3.Material and Methods: This article presents a comprehensive and rigorous critical review of the literature conducted systematically, including thorough data extraction, systematic search, and analysis of relevant studies. Results: The literature review explores the results of various studies on the efficacy and safety of local Thai herbs and ingredients and the potential impacts of medical tourism on sustainability. The review reveals that Thai traditional medicine, incorporating practices, demonstrates promising therapeutic benefits for conditions such as inflammation and respiratory infections. However, challenges exist in terms of standardization and regulation, necessitating further research in order to establish safety and efficacy. While medical tourism benefits Thailand economically, concerns arise regarding social inequalities and environmental impacts. Integrating traditional medicine into medical tourism and adopting sustainable practices can mitigate any adverse effects. These findings highlight the importance of investments in research, education, technology, and sustainable tourism practices that promote traditional medicine, enhance patient care, and position Thailand as a leader in post-pandemic wellness and sustainable development.Conclusion: The discussion emphasizes the need for continued research, education, and regulation in order to promote the integration of traditional medicine into the healthcare system, enhance the safety and efficacy of its practices, and position Thailand as a leader in medical tourism and post-pandemic wellness.

Disease Prediction by Tongue Classification using CNN

Abstract: The integration of traditional medicine and modern technology has opened new avenues for disease prediction and diagnosis. In this study, we explore the use of tongue classification as a non-invasive and cost-effective approach to predict and diagnose various diseases. Tongue images were collected from a diverse patient population and processed to extract relevant features. Machine learning algorithms were employed to classify these tongue images into disease categories, yielding promising results. The study's findings demonstrate the potential of tongue classification as an efficient diagnostic tool, with implications for early disease detection and personalized healthcare. This research offers insights into the fusion of traditional medical knowledge with cutting-edge technology, highlighting the possibilities of enhancing healthcare through innovative interdisciplinary approaches.

Local knowledge, practices, challenges of ethnopharmacologically used medicinal plants in Benin and implications for brain illnesses.

Traditional medicine (TM) is a significant resource for primary healthcare management all over the world, and principally in Africa. Quality improvement activities that promote evidence-based practices and the integration of traditional medicine into primary healthcare systems can help improve the quality of patient care. In the Republic of Benin (West Africa), traditional medicine practitioners (TMPs) provide different treatments and ways of use, depending on the ailments and the medicinal plants used. The present study aimed at documenting the knowledge, attitudes and practices of Beninese TMPs regarding the use of medicinal plants and the challenges associated with their activities. A focus group survey was conducted using semi-structured interviews with a sample of 91 TMPs in 8 departments of the Republic of Benin. The respondents had an average age of 50years old and belonged to various categories of TMPs. Medicinal plants are harvested depending on the season and time of the day, and are dried in the shade before being used as decoctions or infusions. Nevertheless, the majority of TMPs do not conduct the necessary tests for quality control, efficacy or toxicity of the proposed remedies, which raises several scientific interrogations, particularly for the treatment of mental and brain-related disorders. Among ~ 110 plants used in the treatment of several pathologies, 66 were revealed as threatened species. The challenges faced by TMPs are mainly material, financial and technical difficulties. The present study reports the importance of intervention to modernize TM practices in Benin. Quality improvement could enhance healthcare delivery and provide support for evidence-based interventions aimed at addressing behavioral, social, and environmental determinants of health.

Cross-Cultural Analysis of the Role of Traditional Medicine in Health Access in Indonesia

This study investigates the contribution of traditional medicine on health care access in Indonesia through a quantitative cross-cultural approach. Utilizing a sample of 350 individuals that is diverse in terms of age, gender, and ethnic background, the study investigates the prevalence and characteristics that impact the use of traditional medicine. The findings show that traditional healing methods are heavily relied upon, especially by elderly people and members of specific ethnic groups. The necessity for culturally responsive healthcare practices is highlighted by the discovery that cultural beliefs are important determinants of health-seeking behaviour. The results add to the growing body of knowledge about the integration of traditional medicine into modern healthcare systems by highlighting the significance of customizing therapies to the many cultural settings found throughout Indonesia.

Exploring therapeutic targets and drug candidates for obesity: a combined network pharmacology, bioinformatics approach

The remarkably high prevalence of obesity in Saudi Arabia reflects a global epidemic demanding urgent attention due to its associated health risks. The integration of traditional medicine, a vital cultural aspect, involves the use of medicinal plants to address various diseases, including obesity. This research merges network pharmacology (NP) and bioinformatics to innovate obesity treatment by identifying effective phytochemicals from native plants in the Taif valley. Focusing on six indigenous plants—Senna alexandrina, Capsicum annuum, Zingiber officinale, Curcuma longa, Trigonella foenum-graecum, and Foeniculum vulgare—we conducted preliminary screenings for potential bioactive compounds. We systematically compiled compound data from public databases and reviewed literature, revealing active compounds like apigenin, kaempferol, moupinamide, cyclocurcumin, chrysoeriol, isorhamnetin, rheinanthrone, cyclocurcumin, and riboflavin.Constructing a compound-target genes-obesity network unveiled their significant impact on metabolic regulation and fat accumulation, interacting notably with key proteins AKT1 and PTGS2. Molecular docking and 100 ns Molecular Dynamic (MD) simulations demonstrated robust binding affinity and stability at the docking site. Employing adipocytes as a cellular model, we gauged their viability and response to obesity-related stressors post-treatment with these native plant compounds.In conclusion, Saudi Arabia’s indigenous plants hold promise as natural solutions for obesity treatment. This research opens new avenues in the battle against this pervasive health crisis by incorporating the potential of native botanicals. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma

History of primary health care in Iran.

The history of the primary healthcare system in Iran portrays a journey of strategic development and implementation that has resulted in significant advancements in healthcare access and overall population well-being. Starting in the early 1980s, Iran embarked on a comprehensive approach to health care delivery prioritizing universal access, equity, and community participation. The foundation of this system was established during the Alma-Ata Conference in 1978, which placed a strong emphasis on the role of primary health care in attaining health for all.Iran's unwavering commitment to this approach led to the creation of an extensive network of rural and urban health centers designed to offer essential health services and preventive care to all citizens. Over the years, the expansion of Iran's primary healthcare system has yielded noteworthy accomplishments. Maternal and child mortality rates have seen substantial declines, attributed to improved access to maternal care and immunization services. The effectiveness of the system in reaching diverse populations has been enhanced through community engagement and the integration of traditional medicine. Furthermore, Iran's focus on health education and disease prevention has resulted in heightened public awareness and the adoption of healthier lifestyles. Despite these achievements, challenges continue to persist. Disparities in the quality and accessibility of services between urban and rural areas remain a concern. Moreover, the ongoing necessity for infrastructure development, training of the health workforce, and efficient resource allocation underscore the continuous efforts required to strengthen the primary healthcare system. The history of Iran's primary health care system is marked by progress and achievements, underscored by an unwavering commitment to providing comprehensive, community-based care. Iran's journey serves as an exemplary model, highlighting the positive impact of prioritizing primary health care in achieving better health outcomes for its population. As Iran continues to evolve its health system, addressing challenges and building upon successes, the history of its primary health care system serves as a valuable lesson in the pursuit of accessible and equitable health care for all.

Healthcare Delivery in Nigeria: Traditional Medicine Practitioners Perspectives to Universal Health Coverage and Traditional Medicine Integration with Conventional Medicine

Introduction: The knowledge, attitude, and practice of Traditional Medicine Practitioners (TMPs) are key to achieving effective and sustainable integration of all forms of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicine (TCAM) and health services towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC). In this study, the operational and psychological readiness of Traditional Medicine Practitioners towards integration with the conventional health system was examined by critically considering the various factors central to traditional medicine integration as recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO) Traditional Medicine strategy (2014–2023).
 Methods: Paper based questionnaires were administered to Traditional medicine practitioners from three geo-political zones in Nigeria along with Key Informant Interviews. Qualitative – thematic and content analysis using both iterative and interpretative processes, and quantitative –descriptive and inferential analysis were done using statistical package for social sciences version 25.
 Results: A total of 337 respondents participated in the study ranging from 21-61 years of age. More than half (61.7%) were males. Most respondents 310 (92%) had one form of formal education out of which those with secondary education constitute over one-thirds, 121 (35.9%). Over three-quarter of the respondents, 290 (86.1%) were into general practice and over half of the respondents had between 11 – 20 years of experience as traditional medicine practitioners. About two-thirds, 216 (64.1%) of study participants had no knowledge of what integration nor Universal Health Coverage 256, (76%) meant. However, many of the respondents (76.3%) had a good attitude towards integration. More than two-thirds of respondents, 241 (71.5%) claimed to keep patient records but only 157 (46.6%) kept written records.
 Conclusion: Traditional Medicine Practitioners in Nigeria have a positive outlook towards integration. Salient knowledge and practice gaps among them have been revealed. The study shows that regulatory and policy actions should be centred around the support, capacity building through trainings and conferences to disseminate information on scientific/technological advancements to improve their practice, and also to improve on existing policies and government activities.

Use of traditional medicines among conventional medicine practitioners in Burkina Faso

The integration of traditional medicine into biomedical health care practice is highly dependent on its acceptability by conventional medical practitioners. Its use by conventional practitioners was previously unknown in Burkina Faso. The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of traditional medicine use and the frequency of occurrence of adverse events associated with this use among conventional medical practitioners in Burkina Faso. The majority of the practitioners surveyed were women (56.1%) and the average age was 39.7±7 years. Nurses (56.1%), midwives (31.4%) and physicians (8.2%) were the most represented professions. The prevalence of the use of traditional medicines in the 12 months preceding the survey was 75.6%. Malaria was the main medical reason for using traditional medicines (28%). The frequency of reported adverse events was 10% and mainly concerned gastrointestinal disorders (78.3%). The majority of conventional medical practitioners in Burkina Faso use traditional medicines for their health problems. This finding suggests the effective integration of traditional medicine into biomedical health care practice which could benefit from good acceptability by these professionals.

Current Status and Challenges of Pharmacovigilance of Traditional Medicines in French-Speaking West African (UEMOA) Countries.

West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA) countries are characterised by a high prevalence of informal use of medicinal plants and traditional medicines by their population for health care, requiring the establishment of pharmacovigilance, in order to monitor the associated health risks. However, the state of implementation of pharmacovigilance for traditional medicines in UEMOA countries is not known. This study aimed to assess the state of implementation of pharmacovigilance for traditional medicines in the eight UEMOA countries, describing the relevant community provisions, assessing the integration of traditional medicines monitoring into national pharmacovigilance systems and identifying related national challenges. This was a cross-sectional study using questionnaires, conducted between 1 May and 31 August 2022. A face-to-face questionnaire was administered to officials responsible for the issue within UEMOA and the West African Health Organisation (WAHO). A second online questionnaire was specifically sent to the pharmacovigilance focal points of the eight UEMOA countries. Questionnaires were designed using the WHO indicators for pharmacovigilance. The face-to-face questionnaire collected two types of data, namely community policies and regulations on pharmacovigilance and technical and financial support from sub-regional organisations to countries. The online questionnaire sent to countries collected four categories of data on the study issue: structural data, process data, impact data and data on national challenges. As a community provision, WAHO has a harmonised regulatory framework for phytovigilance. The monitoring of traditional medicines is not effectively implemented in the pharmacovigilance systems of UEMOA countries. Only two reports of adverse events due to traditional medicines have so far been recorded in the Union. The countries have neither funding nor sufficient human resources for pharmacovigilance in general. Monitoring of traditional medicines in the unregulated market, training of stakeholders, risk communication, and integration of traditional health practitioners in reporting systems are the main challenges of countries for the development of pharmacovigilance for traditional medicines. The effective compliance of WAHO's harmonised phytovigilance regulatory framework by UEMOA countries and addressing the challenges identified by the countries constitute the basis for the development of pharmacovigilance for traditional medicines within UEMOA.

Integration of traditional medicine into the mental healthcare system in Tshwane, South Africa.

Mental healthcare providers have a negative attitude towards the integration of traditional health medicine (THM) into the mental health system. The attitude is based on their lack of trust in traditional practices, which are not supported by substantial evidence-based medical research. The study was conducted to determine mental healthcare providers views on the integration of traditional health medicine into the mental healthcare system. The study was conducted at a psychiatric hospital in the Tshwane district, Gauteng province, South Africa. A cross-sectional, descriptive research design was conducted on 85 respondents who consented to participate. Data were collected using a survey questionnaire from 23 psychiatrists and 62 psychiatric nurses. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and presented in the form of graphs, frequencies and percentages. Mental healthcare providers displayed a negative attitude towards integrating THM in psychiatric hospitals. The results showed no significant difference between psychiatrists and psychiatric nurses in their preference for modern mental healthcare practices (p= 0.25). There is still doubt among the mental healthcare providers on whether to support integration of the THM into mental health system or not. The doubt is based on the two-health system isolated from each other especially in South Africa.Contribution:This study contributed by showing the need and importance of understanding a patients' cultural background, which supports the integration of a traditional health system into the mental healthcare system, which in turn will lead to the appropriate management of mental illnesses.

Understanding the role of context in health policy implementation: a qualitative study of factors influencing traditional medicine integration in the Indian public healthcare system

ABSTRACT India's public health system aims to foster pluralism by integrating AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) with mainstream biomedical care. This policy change provides an opportunity to explore the complexity of health system innovation, addressing the relationship between biomedicine and complementary or alternative medicine. Implementing health policy depends on local, societal, and political contexts that shape intervention in practice. This qualitative case study explores contextual features that have influenced AYUSH integration and examines the extent to which practitioners are able to exercise agency in these contexts. Health system stakeholders were interviewed (n = 37) and integration activities observed. The analysis identifies contextual factors in health administration, health facilities, community, and wider society which influence the integration process. In the administrative and facility spheres, pre-existing administrative measures, resource and capacity deficits limit access to AYUSH medicines and opportunities to build relationships between biomedical and AYUSH doctors. At the community and society levels, rural AYUSH acceptance facilitates integration into formal healthcare, while professional organisations and media support integrative processes by holding health services accountable. The findings also demonstrate how, amid these contextual influences, AYUSH doctors navigate the health system hierarchies, despite issues with system knowledge against a background of medical dominance.

An Information System Model for Integrating Knowledge of Uganda Herbal Medicine

With health being a priority to all, knowledge on different varieties of herbal medicine is important. This study examines indigenous herbal medicine in Uganda to facilitate the development of a web-based information system model through which knowledge can shared. The research design involved an experimental approach to design and test the information system model and a descriptive qualitative design to collect qualitative data about herbal medicine and the diseases they cure. The study was conducted in the Buwama sub-county, Mpigi district, Uganda, where traditional medicine is widely used in primary health care. The target population was fifty (50) practicing traditional medicine trainees, and purposive sampling was used to select respondents. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and reviewed existing documents about different kinds of herbal medicine. An architectural framework for the web-based information system model was designed using entity-relationship diagrams that represent data flows, inputs, and outputs of the system. The findings of this study show that integration of traditional medicine into modern healthcare systems in Uganda is possible and is appreciated by most health care practitioner. The developed information system model can contribute to improving the accessibility and use of indigenous herbal medicine, promoting their recognition and validation, and ensuring their safe and effective use. The study findings show that a web-based information system model is a promising approach to support the documentation, sharing, and management of indigenous herbal medicine in Uganda. Keywords: Herbal Medicine, System Model, Traditional Medicine, Indigenous Medicine, Web-Based System DOI: 10.7176/JHMN/108-02 Publication date: May 31 st 2023

Innovation of Development Model for Health-Preserving Tourism in Yunnan Province, China

The development of health-preserving tourism has become a new trend in the tourism industry, and it has played an important role in promoting social and economic development. Yunnan Province, located in southwestern China, has abundant tourism resources and a long history of traditional medicine and health preservation practices. In recent years, Yunnan Province has made significant efforts to develop health-preserving tourism, and it has achieved remarkable results. However, there are still challenges that need to be addressed, such as the lack of innovation in the development model and the need for better integration of traditional medicine and modern medical practices. This paper aims to explore the innovation of the development model for health-preserving tourism in Yunnan Province. The innovative development model for health-preserving tourism in Yunnan Province should focus on three key areas: product development, marketing, and supporting services. In terms of product development, Yunnan Province should focus on the integration of traditional medicine and modern medical practices to develop new health-preserving tourism products that meet the needs of different tourists. In terms of marketing, Yunnan Province should strengthen its brand image and develop targeted marketing strategies to attract different types of tourists. In terms of supporting services, Yunnan Province should improve the quality of tourism services and infrastructure, such as transportation, accommodation, and medical facilities. The innovation of the development model for health-preserving tourism in Yunnan Province has significant implications for the tourism industry and the local economy. The findings of this study provide insights for policymakers, industry practitioners, and researchers to promote the sustainable development of health-preserving tourism in Yunnan Province and other regions.

Diagnosis of Epilepsy by Traditional Healers and Its Implications on Management in the Selected Rural Communities of Limpopo and Mpumalanga Provinces: A Qualitative Study.

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder which causes seizures and may be accompanied by loss of unconsciousness and control of bowel or bladder function. However, other types of epilepsy are only characterised by rapid blinking or a few seconds of staring into space. Many people living with epilepsy in rural communities consult traditional healers as their first line of treatment for epilepsy. Second preference is given to medical practitioners which causes unnecessary delay in the early diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy. This study aimed to explore how traditional healers diagnose epilepsy and its implications on management in the selected rural communities of Limpopo and Mpumalanga Provinces. A qualitative approach using explorative, descriptive and contextual designs was adopted. Purposive sampling was used to sample six villages in Limpopo and Mpumalanga Provinces. Snowball sampling was used to sample twenty traditional healers. Data were collected through in-depth individual interviews at the participant's homes. Data were analysed using Tesch's eight steps of open coding data analysis. This study found that traditional healers have varied beliefs and misconceptions regarding the causes and diagnosis of epilepsy, hence this greatly influencing the management. The misconceptions on the causes include a calling by ancestors, urine contents, snake in the stomach, contaminated digestive system and witchcraft. The management included using herbal plants, insects, foam excreted during seizures and urine of the person living with epilepsy. It is recommended that for effective management of epilepsy, there should be coordination between traditional healing and western medicine. Future research should look at the integration of traditional medicine and western medicine.

African Traditional Medicine: Improving its Legitimacy with Legality

Traditional medicine is a part and parcel of African culture. In 2002, the WHO recognized that about 80% of Africans depended on traditional medicine for their health problems. Hence, WHO recommended that governments should incorporate traditional medicines into their NHS so as to improve on primary health care. Since then, the process of acceptance and integration of traditional medicine into the NHS by African governments has been done slowly with reluctance. They cited some issues with the practice of traditional medicine which prevent integration. However, with the legitimacy that traditional medicine enjoys, the public continues to use it for their health care challenges. Traditional medicine was also used to fight against covid-19. This article intends to examine how the legitimacy of traditional medicine can be improved by adding legality to it. Methodologically, it does a thematic study and a review of literature. Its analysis is qualitative in form. Traditional medicine is widely practiced in Africa. Having recognized the worth of traditional medicine, most African governments have allowed the public use of traditional medicine because of advocacy and its wide acceptance which gives it a legitimate status. The provision of higher quality services by traditional health care providers will be improved if legality is added to the legitimacy that it already has. Having proven its worth in the fight against covid-19, it should have a status that will make it more professional, productive and proactive in improving the health care of its users.

Market access of Chinese patent medicine products to healthcare security system in China: implications for international integration of traditional medicine into health systems

BackgroundChina has introduced a series of polices and practice to manage the market access of Chinese patent medicine (CPM) products into its healthcare security system, which is less analyzed and reported in current literature. Therefore, this paper aimed to investigate the mechanisms managing market access of CPM products into healthcare security system in China, expecting to provide implications for international integration of traditional medicine products into health systems.MethodThis paper used a documentary analysis approach as a qualitative research method. Data were collected from four sources and analyzed in a thematic way.ResultsFour mechanisms to manage entry, price adjustment, and exit of innovative brand and generic CPM products are identified, including: (1) price negotiation, mechanism of new entry of innovative brand CPM products into the national reimbursement list; (2) price re-negotiation, mechanism of price adjustment of innovative brand CPM products within the national reimbursement list; (3) mass procurement, mechanism of generic CPM products to healthcare security system; and (4) direct removal, mechanism of removal from the national reimbursement list.ConclusionsChina has established market access framework of CPM products by focusing on price negotiation for innovative brand CPM products and mass procurement for generic CPM products. Further studies of CPM products based real-world data are needed to provide clinical and pharmacoeconomic evidence to support market access of CPM products into healthcare security systems.

Enhancing Students’ Attitude towards Biology through the Integration of Traditional Medicine and 5E’s Learning Cycle

The study investigated the effect of integrating traditional medicine (TM) concepts with grade 9th microorganism and disease topics on students’ attitude towards biology. The study used a quasi-experimental pretest, posttest non-equivalent group design. two intact classes were selected in Chiro district of Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia. The first class belonged to the treatment group where TM contents are integrated through 5E’s learning cycle with the topic Microorganism and Disease and the second was assigned as comparison group learning the same biology unit on Microorganisms and Disease using the usual approach. Biological Attitude Questionnaires (BAQ) was administered for both groups as pre- and post-tests. The findings showed that the integration of TM with the school biology enhanced students’ attitude towards biology as compared with teaching the topics without integration.

The Provision and Utilization of Traditional Korean Medicine in South Korea: Implications on Integration of Traditional Medicine in a Developed Country

Traditional Korean medicine (TKM) is formally integrated into the Korean national health system and monitored through the systematic and computerized system, which could grasp the whole medical services utilization in Korea. This study analyzed TKM resources as input and utilization as output using data from 2008–2017 and compared them to Conventional Medicine (CM). As a result, 25.4% of Koreans utilized TKM yearly, and the proportion of TKM medical expenditure (ME) to total ME in national health insurance was around 4% between 2008 to 2017. The proportion of ME has been stagnating or decreasing over the past ten years. Primary users are the elderly, women, and patients with musculoskeletal diseases. The Korean Ministry of health and welfare has also developed and operated programs that have taken advantage of the strengths of TKM. This study analyzes the current status of TKM in Korea comparing with that of CM. It also explores how and why the patterns of TKM and CM are different. Although the study focuses on input and output indicators, it also highlights the challenge of evaluating whether these lead to outcomes. Lastly, it seeks to inform relevant authorities of the importance of monitoring roles and evidence-informed policymaking.