Who Qualifies for Traditional Healing Integration in Puerto Rico
GrantID: 4233
Grant Funding Amount Low: $500,000
Deadline: February 5, 2026
Grant Amount High: $500,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Integration of Traditional Healing Methods in Puerto Rico
In Puerto Rico, the healthcare system traditionally focuses on Western medical practices, which can overlook the important cultural and community-based healing methods that many residents rely on. This gap in the healthcare model often results in disenfranchisement of local healing practices among pregnant persons and families with children, despite a rich history of traditional medicine in the region. According to recent studies, over 40% of Puerto Rican families utilize traditional healing methods alongside conventional healthcare, indicating a strong preference for an integrated approach.
The populations most affected by the lack of integration are pregnant women and children, especially in rural areas where access to conventional healthcare facilities may be limited. Many mothers opt for traditional healers when seeking care, leading to a disconnect between their health practices and the formal health system. This indicates not only a gap in the type of care received but also highlights the cultural significance of traditional practices in overall health and well-being.
This funding opportunity is aimed at creating a framework for the integration of traditional healing methods into the healthcare system for pregnant individuals and children in Puerto Rico. By involving community healers in formal healthcare settings, the initiative aims to respect and incorporate cultural practices while enhancing the overall quality of maternal and child health outcomes. This blended approach recognizes the importance of cultural competence in healthcare delivery and strives to improve trust between the healthcare system and the communities it serves.
The project will focus on training healthcare providers to understand and value traditional practices, enabling them to work collaboratively with community healers. This includes workshops that educate providers about the benefits of traditional healing methods and how they can complement conventional treatments. Through this initiative, the aim is to create a continuum of care that respects cultural practices while addressing health disparities among pregnant women and children.
By fostering collaboration between traditional healers and healthcare providers, Puerto Rico can move towards a more inclusive healthcare system that caters to the needs of its diverse population. This integration not only seeks to improve health outcomes but also to validate the critical role of traditional healing in enhancing maternal and child health.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
