Shillong: In the verdant hills of Meghalaya’s Ri Bhoi district, a unique healthcare story is unfolding, spearheaded by Dr Elington Syiem, a 41-year-old traditional healer from Paham Syiem village. Since 2007, Dr Syiem has become a vital healthcare link for residents in remote areas, attending to approximately 28,000 patients and remarkably identifying over 30 presumptive cases of tuberculosis within his community.
Dr Syiem emphasizes the crucial role of traditional healers in connecting conventional medicine with age-old practices. His methodology is a blend of ancestral wisdom, passed down from his uncle, and contemporary knowledge acquired through formal training in hygiene and the cultivation of medicinal herbs.
His integrated patient care involves ensuring adherence to prescribed medical treatments while offering complementary herbal remedies and essential counseling. This holistic approach has shown notable success, particularly in the management of tuberculosis, where it has helped to destigmatize the illness and improve the overall well-being of patients.
Looking towards environmental sustainability, Dr Syiem encourages fellow herbalists to cultivate medicinal plants on their own land, highlighting the benefits of close monitoring during germination and ensuring optimal growth. The cultivation cycle typically commences in June, with the herbs receiving care throughout the winter before being harvested during the monsoon season.
The Meghalaya government, through India’s National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP), has actively recognized and involved traditional healers in their efforts to eradicate tuberculosis. These trusted figures within their communities often serve as the initial point of contact for healthcare in underserved regions. As part of this collaboration, they receive training to recognize the signs of TB, facilitate early diagnosis, and provide support for treatment adherence.
A significant step in unifying traditional practices occurred in 2019 with Dr Syiem joining the Ri Bhoi Traditional Healer Association. This body brings together over 500 practitioners specializing in diverse healing methods, including herbal medicine, massage therapy, birth assistance, and the treatment of injuries such as burns, sprains, strokes, and fractures. The association’s credibility has been further enhanced through recognition from the Bio Resources Development Centre.
The commitment to integrating traditional and modern healthcare reached a new height in January 2023 with the establishment of the Meghalaya Traditional Healing Clinic. This clinic now serves over 250 patients each month, demonstrating the growing trust within the community for a healthcare model that respects cultural healing traditions while embracing the advancements of modern medicine.
Further solidifying this collaborative framework, the state government has introduced incentives for traditional healers who refer individuals with suspected TB for testing. This initiative strengthens a healthcare system that values cultural heritage and simultaneously embraces medical progress for the benefit of all.
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