Efforts to Prevent the Neglect of Traditional Indigenous Medicine: Policy Insights From Bolivia

ABSTRACT

Traditional Indigenous medicine has existed for centuries, but only recently has it obtained international recognition. Some countries have been working on the integration of traditional Indigenous healing practices in their national health systems. For example, Bolivia has taken significant steps to prevent the neglect of traditional Indigenous medicine over the last 40+ years, a process that continues today through several policies supported by the national government. The aim of this perspective article was to discuss efforts to prevent the neglect of traditional Indigenous medicine in Bolivia. Through analysis of 12 legal documents, including the Constitution of 2009, decrees, laws and resolutions, we categorised the efforts in 5 points: acknowledging the past, making radical changes to the political constitution, adopting a new approach to health and wellness, regulating traditional medicine, and protecting the environment.