Libraries at University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Abstract
Information plays a crucial role in modern society. It helps people to develop their knowledge of the world. This knowledge guides them against mistakes leading to effectiveness and efficiency in all aspects of life. This survey aimed to determine the Information needs and sources of Information of Traditional Medicine Practitioners (TMPs) in Nigeria with reference to Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State. The study population comprised forty (40) registered traditional medicine practitioners in Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State. The questionnaire instrument was used for data collection in which forty (40) copies were administered to the traditional medicine practitioners. Thirty-six (36) copies were completed and returned. These were found usable for analysis using frequency and percentages distribution. The findings of the study revealed that the TMPs need Information on health, scientific, legal, conservation and management, amongst others, to achieve success in the practice. The study also revealed that a majority of the TMPs acquire relevant Information through inspiration. The findings further revealed that the TMPs face a lot of challenges ranging from lack of support by governments, inadequate recognition, non-passage of TM bill to ensure the establishment of Traditional Medicine Council, violation of intellectual property rights of practitioners, criticism by society, lack of adequate Information, gap between researchers and drugs development, etc. Recommendations were made based on the findings of the study.
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Alternative and Complementary Medicine Commons, Bioethics and Medical Ethics Commons, Communication Sciences and Disorders Commons, Disease Modeling Commons, Endocrine System Diseases Commons, Library and Information Science Commons
Comments
This paper is being submitted for assessment and publication.