Traditional health practitioners (THPs) play a crucial role in South African communities by addressing various health issues. To improve their effectiveness, they need knowledge and skills in both traditional and modern (biomedical) medicine. However, there is limited information on the biomedical knowledge and skills of THPs.

A research study funded by the National Research Foundation (NRF) investigated the training needs of THPs in urban townships of South Africa regarding biomedical knowledge and skills. Conducted in the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality in Gauteng Province, the study used a qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive approach. It involved 18 THPs selected through snowball sampling, with data gathered through a lekgotla group discussion and analysed thematically.

Critical Training Needs Identified:

1. Understanding the Human Body: THPs expressed the need for a better understanding of human anatomy and physiology.
2. Patient Assessment Skills: They requested further training in effectively assessing patients’ health conditions.
3. Emergency Management: There was a notable interest in gaining skills to manage emergency health situations.
4. Integration of Traditional and Biomedical Practices: THPs aimed to understand the differences and similarities between traditional health practices and biomedical systems, particularly regarding diagnostic methods.

Recommendations:

• First Aid Training: Providing THPs with first aid skills would enable them to offer immediate assistance to patients before emergency services arrive.
• Training Programs: Implementing training programs for THPs on emergency first aid interventions could significantly enhance their ability to handle urgent health situations.

The study concluded that empowering THPs with biomedical knowledge and skills can improve their capacity to promote healthy living and prevent health issues in communities with limited access to medical resources. THPs showed enthusiasm for receiving training in specific biomedical skills to enhance patient care.