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Root doctors as providers of primary care
Journal of the National Medical Association
|July 1, 1983
Summary
Primary care physicians encounter many patients with psychological issues. This paper discusses "root doctors" in southern towns who use autosuggestion and counseling to treat these patients, offering insights for physicians.
Area of Science:
- Medical Anthropology
- Primary Care Medicine
- Psychology
Background:
- A significant percentage of primary care visits are for psychological complaints.
- Traditional healers, known as "root doctors," are prevalent in some southern communities, particularly among Black populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To inform primary care physicians about the role and practices of root doctors.
- To bridge the understanding between conventional medical approaches and traditional healing methods.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on traditional healing practices.
- Observational insights into the methods employed by root doctors.
Main Results:
- Root doctors effectively utilize autosuggestion, medication, and psychological counseling.
- These practitioners address a substantial portion of primary care psychological needs within their communities.
Conclusions:
- Root doctors represent an important, often overlooked, component of primary care in certain regions.
- Understanding these traditional healers can enhance patient care and treatment adherence.