Abstract / Summary
Herbal medicine (HM) is widely used by HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis (TB) patients raising concerns of potential herb-drug interactions, patient adherence, and overall patient safety if left unregulated. Healthcare professionals (HCPs) play a crucial role in addressing these challenges. However, in Ethiopia, there is a lack of evidence concerning the experiences and perspectives of HCPs in managing the use of HM among these patient populations. To explore the experiences and perspectives of HCPs regarding the use of HM among HIV and TB patients in rural Ethiopia. A qualitative descriptive study design was employed. Data were collected through key informant interviews with HCPs who provide direct care to HIV/AIDS and TB patients in selected facilities within Metekel Zone. The interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, coded, and thematically analyzed using MAXQDA 2020. The study included 25 key informants. Thematic analysis of the data identified six major themes on experiences and perspectives of HCPs regarding the use of HM among patients with HIV and TB. Some HCPs reported a lack of direct encounters with HM users due to instances of patient non-disclosure or their failure of proper assessment. In contrast, others reported encounters of cases that ranged from symptom relief to severe toxicity, advanced AIDS and fatalities. The counselling provided by HCPs varied; some advised against using HMs entirely, whereas others recommended that time of HM use be separated from ART or anti-TB medications or limit HMs to topical use only. HCPs expressed considerable safety concerns regarding toxicity, drug interactions, and disease progression, although they acknowledged the cultural, economic, and accessibility factors that drive the use of HMs. This study identified six themes related to HCPs experiences and perspectives on HM use among HIV/AIDS and TB patients. Some HCPs reported no encounters with HM users, while others observed symptom relief and toxicities. Inadequate assessment, limited counseling, and patient non-disclosure affected integrated care. HM use was linked to cultural beliefs, socio-economic factors, accessibility, and anecdotal efficacy claims. Improved communication, HCP training on HM, research, and collaboration are recommended.