Global Integration of Traditional and Modern Medicine: Policy Developments, Regulatory Frameworks, and Clinical Integration Model

Abstract

Globally, the integration of traditional medicine and modern medicine has been recognized as a global health priority aimed at improving healthcare accessibility, cultural relevance, and therapeutic effectiveness. This review systematically examines the global landscape of traditional medicine-modern medicine integration by analyzing policy developments, regulatory frameworks, and clinical implementation models across various regions, including Asia, Africa, Europe, and the USA. The scope of the review encompasses five key domains: (1) global policy initiatives, (2) regulatory and institutional frameworks, (3) clinical integration models, (4) impacts and outcomes of integrative practices, and (5) challenges and barriers to implementation. Based on peer-reviewed literature and official health policy documents published between 2000 and 2025, the present review investigates how countries have operationalized clinical integration models combining traditional and complementary medicine. Although interest in traditional and complementary medicine has grown worldwide, persistent challenges, such as limited scientific validation, lack of standardization, and professional resistance, continue to hinder progress. This review concludes that successful and sustainable integration requires evidence-based clinical approaches, inclusive regulatory reforms, and coordinated policy strategies. Countries such as China, India, and Brazil have made significant advances, offering valuable models for future implementation worldwide.

Keywords

Traditional medicine integration / Health policy / Regulatory frameworks / Clinical integration models / Modern medicine / Traditional and complementary medicine

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