Traditional and western health care among the Zuni Indians of New Mexico

Abstract

This study examines the role of traditional and Western health care among the Zuni Indians of New Mexico. Over the past 100 years, changes in the practice of traditional medicine have resulted from alterations in the Zuni life style and the introduction of health care provided by the Public Health Service. These alternative systems of health care are both utilized to a varying extent, determined by many factors. The present-day beliefs and expectations of the Zuni concerning disease, its etiology and its treatment are described in an analysis of the interaction between the traditional and Western health care systems. The value of traditional medical practices is examined and the importance of understanding them is stressed with the goal of increasing awareness of the health care providers of conflicts that may arise with the introduction of Western medicine. Suggestions are made that may facilitate the acceptance of modern health care in communities where traditional medicine plays an important role.