The changing role of a Vaidya (non-codified traditional doctor) in the community health of Kerala Southern India: comparison of treatment-seeking behaviours between the Vaidya’s patients and community members

摘要

BackgroundThis study aimed at exploring the roles of a Vaidya – an uncodified traditional doctor – in a community in Kerala State, India. Special attention was paid to the characteristics of the Vaidya’s patients in comparison with the treatment-seeking behaviour of the community members.