Perspectives of Health Care Providers in Rural Côte d’Ivoire on the Influence of Traditional Beliefs on the Management of Rheumatic Heart Disease: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Introduction:

This article explores the positions of rural Côte d’Ivoire health care practitioners on the role of traditional beliefs in treating Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD), a disease in which cardiovascular mortality is still high worldwide. Health care decisions in this region are hugely influenced by traditional African medicine (TAM).

Methods:

A qualitative study was created using semi-structured interviews and focus groups with 24 health care experts. The themes and their significance were found using inductive thematic analysis.

Results:

The integration of contemporary and TAM, community engagement and collaboration, improving patient education and awareness, consideration of cultural beliefs and practices in care delivery, and tackling delayed care and diagnosis are highlighted as the five main areas for development.

Discussion:

The studies reveal possibilities for improving RHD control in rural Côte d’Ivoire. They emphasize the need for legislative action and cultural competency training to overcome challenges like cultural beliefs and budgetary constraints.

Keywords

rheumatic heart disease group A streptococcus infection acute rheumatic fever acute rheumatic carditis health care providers global health patient-centered care traditional African medicine traditional beliefs and practices cultural sensitivity ancestry language community health workers Rural Côte d’Ivoire qualitative research perception of health care

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