Integrating Natural Health Science into Modern Healthcare: A Critical Synthesis and Implementation Pathways
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Purpose To critically synthesise the case for integrating Natural Health Science (NHS) into modern healthcare and to outline practical implementation pathways suitable for health policy and planning contexts. Approach Conceptual/synthesis design using Chapter 1 as the sole data source, with explicit articulation of the synthesis design and transparent notes on limitations due to the absence of primary data. Results The synthesis identifies modality-specific themes (herbal medicine, nutrition, mindfulness, lifestyle) and cross-cutting barriers and facilitators to NHS integration, including safety, regulation, education, workforce readiness, and health equity. A practical, stepwise implementation framework is proposed. Conclusions NHS integration holds potential to enhance patient-centred care, prevention, and health system sustainability. The article provides actionable guidance for clinicians, educators, and policymakers and outlines a policy and research road-map.
Author: Samantha Thurston
Language: English
Subfield: Complementary and alternative medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
OpenAlex ID: W4414613262