Curanderismo and Health Delivery Services [report]

Jean Blaesser
2000 unpublished
This study explores and describes curanderismo (folk curing) and the cultural disease concepts of rnollera caida, emEacho, mal detOjO, and susto as researched in a rural Oregon communit.. Ch~cano, cultural disease concepts and beliefs are the'n related to modern health ~elivery services, and a case is made for the need for cultural awareness, respect, and sensitivity on the part of medical personnel who deliver services~ The approach of a curandera (curer) and a doctor are compared. It is
more » ... ly stated that Chicanos' health beliefs and practices do not exist in isolation" from the rest of their culture, and that the concept of familia is a particu larly important focal point in the harmony of this culture. It is suggested that health delivery services as well as all helping services cannot afford to neglect the totality of a Chicano cultural viewpoint ·if their services 'are to have relevance. Practical' sugges~ions for health personnel are included. Data were collected ~rimarily through the participant-observer method.
doi:10.15760/etd.2045 fatcat:bsyvb5rixzfpfpiddvs3h7wqra