Present an essay discussing the health care beliefs of both heritages and if there is any similarity in both heritages health care. Please mention how the health care beliefs affect the delivery of evidence-based health care. The essay must be presented in an word document, Arial 12 font. The assignment must include . Reference should not be older than five years. A minimum of (excluding the first and references page) is required.
The health care beliefs of different heritages play a significant role in influencing the way health care is delivered and received. In this essay, we will explore the health care beliefs of two specific heritages and look for similarities in their approach to health care. Furthermore, we will examine how these beliefs affect the delivery of evidence-based health care.
One of the heritages we will focus on is the East Asian heritage, which includes countries such as China, Japan, and Korea, among others. The health care beliefs in this heritage are deeply rooted in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which has a history of over 2,000 years. TCM views health as a state of balance between the body, mind, and spirit. It emphasizes the concept of Qi (pronounced “chee”), which is the vital energy that flows through the body. Illness is believed to be caused by an imbalance or blockage of Qi.
In East Asian heritage, the approach to health care is holistic and preventive. Traditional practices such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and tai chi are commonly used to promote health and well-being. The focus is on maintaining harmony and balance within the body rather than merely treating symptoms. Therefore, health care is often sought before symptoms manifest, and there is emphasis on early detection and prevention of diseases.
The second heritage we will explore is the African heritage, which encompasses a diverse range of countries and cultures across the continent. In African health care beliefs, there is a strong connection between the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of health. Traditional healers, known as shamans or witch doctors, play a significant role in providing health care in this heritage. They use various rituals, herbs, and divination techniques to diagnose and treat illnesses.
Like the East Asian heritage, the African heritage also places importance on prevention and maintaining balance. Traditional African medicine often focuses on strengthening the body’s natural defenses and promoting harmony with nature. Herbal remedies, prayers, and rituals are commonly used to address health issues. Moreover, community and social support are integral parts of the healing process, as the belief is that health and illness are interconnected with the social fabric of one’s community.
When comparing the health care beliefs of these two heritages, we can identify some similarities. Both heritages emphasize the holistic nature of health, recognizing the interconnections between the body, mind, and spirit. Additionally, both heritages prioritize prevention and balance, seeking to promote overall well-being rather than solely treating diseases.
These health care beliefs have implications for the delivery of evidence-based health care. Evidence-based health care relies on scientific research, clinical trials, and empirical evidence to inform treatment decisions. However, in cultures that have strong traditional healing practices, there can be a conflict between evidence-based medicine and traditional beliefs.
For instance, traditional healing practices may not align with Western medical practices and may not be supported by scientific evidence. This can lead to difficulties in integrating traditional and evidence-based health care approaches. Patients from these heritages may prefer traditional healing methods and may be skeptical of Western medicine, which can impact their adherence to evidence-based treatments.
Health care providers and researchers need to approach these cultural beliefs with sensitivity and respect. In order to effectively deliver evidence-based health care to individuals from these heritages, it is important to consider their cultural beliefs and preferences. This may involve incorporating traditional practices into treatment plans, when appropriate, or engaging in open dialogue with patients to address any concerns or misconceptions.
In conclusion, the health care beliefs of different heritages, such as the East Asian and African heritages, have similarities in their emphasis on holistic health and prevention. These beliefs can impact the delivery of evidence-based health care, as traditional healing practices may conflict with Western medical approaches. To ensure culturally sensitive care, health care providers must be mindful of these beliefs and engage in open communication with patients to provide effective, evidence-based treatments.