Based on mixed perceptions which were both negative and positive the policy makers
have not been vocal about the process to incorporate traditional healers into the
National Health Care Delivery System of South Africa. Negative views were related
to the denial that traditional healing does provide a cure and the positive views were
identified in the passing of policies from 1994. These policies passed initiated
recognition of the existence of traditional healers, but failed to address the important
aspect of incorporating the traditional healers into the National Health Care Delivery
System. It is these mixed perceptions as well as lack of appropriate policy to facilitate
incorporation of traditional healers that urged the researcher to explore the perceptions
and attitudes of policy makers regarding this incorporation process, as well as their
views on how it should be achieved.
An exploratory, descriptive and contextual qualitative research design was followed.
Participants were selected by non-probable, purposive voluntary sample. Data was
collected by means of conducting semi-structured interviews, as well as taking field
notes. Data analysis was achieved by analysing transcriptions through open coding
involving a co-coder until consensus was achieved. Results reflect that policy makers
are in favour of incorporation.
In conclusion incorporation was seen as a process that needs to be undertaken by
both traditional healers and biomedical personnel through communication. That
government should be responsible for this process by policy formulation, which
should clarify terms and conditions for incorporation.