A Comparative Study on Health System and Performance of Hospitals Providing Health Care among Traditional Mongolian Mediciene, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine in Inner Mongolia of China

Abstract

Background: In Inner Mongolia of China, Traditional Mongolian Medicine (TMM), Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and Western Medicine (WM) are all supported by the government. Objective: The general objective of this study is to review the Six Building Blocks of Traditional Mongolian Medicine and to evaluate patient expectations and perceptions of Traditional Mongolia Medicine compared with Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine in Inner Mongolia. Methods: The World Health Organization's Six Building Blocks framework was used for the system review. Data were collected from literature review and key informant interviews. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in three types of hospitals at the provincial, municipal (city), and prefectural (county) levels from April to August, 2016. Eight hospitals were included and within each one, patients from four outpatient departments were selected. A total of 1,322 patients were interviewed about their expectations and perceptions of the health service. Results: Government support for TMM includes higher budget allocation and a higher reimbursement rate. TMM is preferred by Mongolian people, those living in pasturing areas, and those seeking treatment for musculoskeletal problems/injuries. Patients attending TMM hospitals had the highest expectations and perceptions of the health service in general. However, human resources and research capacity of TMM are relatively limited. Conclusion: To further enhance the role of the popular TMM for local minority's health, human resources and research capacity strengthening are essential.