Intersectoral Collaboration Between Traditional Bonesetters and Formal Healthcare: A Systematic Review on Past...

Bone fractures in low- and middle-income countries are commonly managed by traditional bonesetters (TBSs). Past studies emphasize the potential for improved fracture care through intersectoral cooperation. This review gauged support among stakeholders for intersectoral collaboration and the results of previous initiatives.

Five medical databases were reviewed. Studies focusing on stakeholder perspectives and articles detailing collaborative initiatives were included. Data extraction and synthesis were carried out using the Cochrane Consumers and Communication Review Group's template. Additionally, all studies underwent quality assessment.

Of the 3821 identified articles, 16 were included after full-text screening. Twelve articles presented stakeholder perspectives, whereas four discussed collaborative initiatives. The overall article quality was low: articles on stakeholder perspectives scored on average 1.42 out of 4 points, whereas articles on collaborative initiatives scored a mean 1.25 points. In total, 62% of stakeholders (75% of TBSs, 92% of hospital staff, and 52% of patients) expressed support for intersectoral collaboration. The ratio between stakeholders expressing support versus those opposing was 4.4:1. No articles presented data on governmental perspectives. The most mentioned collaborative forms were TBS training (24% of stakeholders) and an integrative model (16% of stakeholders). Interventional studies all consisted of TBS training, reporting improved clinical outcomes and increased practice integration.

Despite the limited and low-quality evidence on collaboration initiatives and perspectives, most stakeholders seem supportive of intersectoral collaboration, with training and integration being commonly suggested. Future research efforts exploring the feasibility of embedding TBSs into current primary care systems should ensure the involvement of local and national government.