Criteria for the selection, evaluation and application of traditional knowledge in contemporary health practice, education, research and policy: A systematic review
Hope Foley, Andrea Bugarcic, Jon Adams, Jon Wardle, Matthew Leach, Amie Steel- Health Information Management
- Library and Information Sciences
- Health Informatics
Abstract
Background
Traditional and complementary medicine (T&CM) is highly utilised and draws on traditional knowledge (TK) as evidence, raising a need to explore how TK is currently used.
Objectives
Examine criteria used to select, evaluate and apply TK in contemporary health contexts.
Methods
Systematic search utilising academic databases (
Results
From the 54 included articles, EPIS mapping found TK is primarily used in the Exploration phase of implementation (n = 54), with little reporting on Preparation (n = 16), Implementation process (n = 6) or Sustainment (n = 4) of TK implementation. Criteria used in selection, evaluation and application of TK commonly involved validation with other scientific/traditional evidence sources, or assessment of factors influencing knowledge translation.
Discussion
One of the difficulties in validation of TK (as a co‐opted treatment) against other evidence sources is comparing like with like as TK often takes a holistic approach. This complicates further planning and evaluation of implementation.
Conclusion
This review identifies important criteria for evaluating current and potential contemporary use of TK, identifying gaps in research and practice for finding, appraising and applying relevant TK studies for clinical care.