Cartagena, Colombia: Integrating Customary Medicine into Modern Healthcare

Cartagena, Colombia, is pioneering a unique approach to⁢ healthcare,‍ blending traditional healing practices‌ with modern medical systems. On December 27, 2024, the District Administrative department of Health (Dadis) announced the launch⁣ of four community networks designed to strengthen ancestral ‌and traditional medicine throughout the city. This ‍initiative, ​part of ‍Cartagena’s “city of rights” development⁤ plan, aims ​to leverage the invaluable knowledge held within ⁢the community to improve overall healthcare.

According to Alex Tejada Núñez, director of Dadis, ‍”the idea is to take advantage of the​ knowledge and wisdom of each community ⁣about the⁢ practices they use in health to improve and strengthen the‌ system through this community network.”

The initiative is already yielding positive results. gloria‍ Esther Sánchez Anaya, an Afro-Colombian midwife with years of experience in Villa Gloria, La boquilla, emphasizes the importance of this collaboration. She states, “every time they are recognized, the knowledge that ethnic peoples have, ⁣it is also a ⁢way ⁣to make visible those informed people who are in the communities such as⁤ the midwives and​ the prayer men.”

Nolber Francisco Alvarado, a member of‍ the Kankuamos ‌indigenous community, further highlights the benefits of the knowledge exchange within the network. He notes the collaborative efforts in treating various ailments, stating, ⁣”the exchange of knowledge between the members of the network in the treatment of the sick, childbirth, snake bites and​ decomposed patients.”

This innovative program, spearheaded by Mayor Dumek Turbay Paz’s management, underscores a commitment to ‍inclusivity and respect for diverse cultural practices. By integrating traditional medicine into the healthcare system, Cartagena is not only improving access to care but‍ also preserving valuable cultural heritage. This model offers a⁣ potential blueprint ⁢for other ⁤communities seeking to improve healthcare outcomes while honoring their cultural roots.

The‌ integration of traditional medicine into⁣ modern healthcare systems ⁤is a growing trend globally, with similar initiatives gaining traction​ in⁤ various parts of the‍ United States. This approach often focuses⁣ on incorporating complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies alongside conventional ‌treatments, reflecting a broader shift towards holistic ⁢and patient-centered care.

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Cartagena Leads the Way: Blending Traditional and Modern Medicine for a Healthier Future

This week, we sat down⁢ wiht Dr. Isabella Rios, a leading anthropologist and expert⁣ in indigenous ‌health practices, to discuss Cartagena, ColombiaS groundbreaking initiative to integrate ​traditional medicine into its modern healthcare system.



Senior Editor: Dr. Rios, thank you ‍for joining‍ us today. Cartagena’s⁤ approach to healthcare is attracting a lot of international attention. Can you tell us a little about what makes it so unique?



Dr. rios: Certainly. cartagena is‍ pioneering ​a truly innovative model by formally recognizing and incorporating traditional healing practices alongside⁣ conventional ⁢medicine. This acknowledges the vast ‍wealth of knowledge held within local communities, notably indigenous groups and Afro-Colombian communities, who ​have honed these practices for generations.



Senior Editor: The⁢ article mentions the creation of four community networks. How ​do ⁣these function in‌ practice?



dr. rios: These networks act as vital channels for knowledge​ exchange and collaboration. They bring together traditional healers, midwives,‌ community leaders, and medical professionals. This collective wisdom allows for a more holistic approach to healthcare,addressing ​not only the physical ​but also the spiritual and cultural needs of patients.



Senior Editor: The article highlights the success stories of individuals​ like Gloria Esther Sánchez Anaya and nolber Francisco Alvarado. Can you elaborate on the impact ⁤this initiative is having‌ on the ground?



Dr. Rios: These are just ​two examples of many. Gloria’s work as a midwife, recognized and supported by‍ the network, is preserving traditional birthing practices. Nolber, a member of the​ Kankuamo indigenous community, exemplifies the valuable contribution of indigenous knowledge in treating a diverse range of ailments. Their stories demonstrate how this initiative is empowering communities, ⁢improving healthcare access, and revitalizing traditional practices.



Senior Editor: This model seems to have the potential to be replicated in⁢ other parts of ​the‍ world.What are some key takeaways for other communities considering a similar approach?





Dr Rios: Cartagena’s success underscores the‍ importance of respect, collaboration, and a genuine commitment to cultural⁣ inclusivity. It’s ⁣essential to acknowledge the value ​of traditional knowledge while ensuring that it is integrated seamlessly‌ and ethically into the existing healthcare system. It’s about creating a ⁢win-win situation where both traditional and modern ​medicine complement each other for ‌the benefit of the community.