The Cultural-Impact Study

For the past 4 years, I’ve been working on a project to improve access to research in people in the rural and underserved populations. This is called the CULTURALIMPACT study. I am happy that I am succeeding. The study has made impact on doctors, policy makers, and government. My colleagues in 2 African countries have contacted me to do teach them how I am succeeding. They have gotten the strategy and they’re in the process of implementing it in their countries. It works! It works through the C-A-R-E
model.

One of the greatest challenges in research, hitherto neglected is the impact of culture in the success of research works. In majority of regions in the developing world, cultural traditions are held avidly, almost to fanaticism. In these regions, literacy levels are low and healthcare decision making is strongly influenced by traditional beliefs, animist rites and poverty. Traditions of chieftains, lineages and consensus building still remain vibrant. Hence, conducting research in the developing countries will involve working in alliance with these men, women, children and disabled persons. To ensure
success, such research should be compatible with the social systems and sensitive to stated needs. Why would a pregnant woman prefer a village midwife to deliver her of her baby when she lives in the midst of a consultant Obstetrician who works in a teaching hospital? It is simply a question of her cultural belief.......