Integration of traditional and ‘modern’ medicine: Reflections on a visit to DPR Korea

Abstract

Introduction Many traditional, complementary and alternative medicine systems are used throughout the world. The reasons for use and government support of these systems vary. In the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPR Korea, i.e. North Korea) traditional Koryo medicine is strongly supported by the government, reportedly providing around half of all healthcare services and medicines. The purpose of this paper is to impart reflections from a short stay in the little visited country of DPR Korea, provide some insights into their healthcare delivery, and reflect on transferable lessons that support traditional medicine integration with national healthcare systems. Methods Field notes and ..