Learning from the past, improving upon the present: traditional and western medical systems at the juncture.

Each cultural group has a reality which consists of a formal multi-centuried tested system of beliefs and practices. That system potentially inhibits or facilitate the acceptance of newly introduced technology and ideas. Among the critical beliefs and practices are those related to health and well-being. This article compares and contrasts "western" and "traditional" medical systems located both in the United States and other parts of the world. It discusses health and policy related postures concerning the "traditional medical system" taken by several countries and organizations. It, further, provides an overview of some current trends related to the recognition and acknowledged value of traditional medicine world-wide.