South African triple heritage and public healthcare

Abstract

The paper is based on the assertion that South Africa is a country of triple cultural heritage. It is home to representatives of three global regions i.e. Africa, Asia and Europe. This composition has created a diversity of culture and knowledge systems impacting on public healthcare. This rich and diverse heritage advocates for health care equity and leadership. The paper interrogates the following aspects: the impact of western healthcare system on other indigenous healthcare systems; cases from the triple cultural heritage groups showcasing the prospects and challenges of indigenous medical and health systems on public healthcare in South Africa.