Integration of Traditional Medicine Services into Public Health Centers in Indonesia: A Qualitative Study

Background : Many people are still using traditional medicine in various countries. This is a challenge for the government because they must effectively manage services, maintain quality, and protect patients. Integrating traditional medicine into public health centers provides safe and quality services. This study aimed to explore the perceptions and experiences of traditional medicine users and program implementers in Indonesian public health centers. Methods : This study used an exploratory qualitative research design. Data were collected from program implementers and traditional medicine users. Data were collected through focus group discussions and in-depth interviews from March to June 2023. The study had 16 participants included 10 implementers in focus group discussions and six users in in-depth interviews. analysis with an inductive approach was employed. Results : Three themes were identified, namely, user preferences for using traditional medicine, success factors of integration, and challenges for improvement of existing integration. Despite obstacles, many participants expressed their support for integration, particularly in terms of human resource readiness. Moreover, people tended to prefer traditional medicine services provided in public health centers over traditional healers because of individual belief, trust in the delivery services, and therapeutic effects. Conclusion : The integration of traditional medicine services into public health centers is essential to provide easy access and preserve traditional health services that are in line with local wisdom, effective, and safe.