Improving intersectoral collaboration between formal healthcare workers and traditional bonesetters in resource-limited settings: evaluation of a pilot collaborative orthopaedic trauma course in rural Tanzania.

ABSTRACT: High trauma rates and limited orthopaedic care services in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) have led to reliance on traditional bonesetters (TBSs). Previous studies have set up formal training for TBSs to promote integration in the primary healthcare sector. However, the hierarchic structure of these initiatives poses the risk of alienating TBSs instead. Therefore, this study piloted a novel training strategy, by assessing the feasibility of an orthopaedic trauma course, involving bilateral knowledge exchange between both formal healthcare workers (FHWs) and TBSs. In November 2024, TBSs and FHWs from Rorya district, rural Tanzania, attended a three-day basic trauma course, aimed at teaching basic extremity fracture care and enhancing collaboration. Data on demographics, pre- and po

SUBMITTER: Binnerts JJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12379470 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature