INSTITUTE OF TRADITIONAL AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE
The University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) was established by an Act of Parliament (Act 828; December, 2011) as a pre-eminent research and practically oriented health educational institution dedicated to community service. Section 2(2) of this Act mandated the University to establish an Institute of Traditional and Alternative Medicine (ITAM). In line with this and the statutes of the University, the Institute was established and began operations in September 2019.
The focus of ITAM includes; the organization of training and research programmes in TCAM practices and products; sensitization, public education and advocacy with respect to TCAM, that will lead to increased confidence in the safety and use of TCAM practices; and the promotion of integrative and holistic TCAM with allopathic practices. The Institute will be involved in the production and preservation of natural products with medicinal properties to facilitate scientific studies.
ITAM is a strategic and unique Institute that would address the challenges and bridge the gaps with regards to the practice of TCAM and its related fields in Ghana. ITAM will liaise appropriately with other state institutions and collaborate effectively with all stakeholders and partners in all its activities and functions in order to perform efficiently and ensure that all standards set for TCAM practices are followed and targets achieved.
VISION
To be an internationally recognized centre of excellence in the development and promotion of TCAM practices.
MISSION
To optimize healthcare by facilitating the holistic integration of TCAM into the national healthcare system through education, training, research, product development, advocacy, community engagement and service delivery.
STRATEGIC GOALS
- To deliver accredited courses (certificate, diploma, and postgraduate programmes in TCAM), as well as CPDs, workshops and conferences on TCAM practices
- To produce industry-ready and integrative TCAM/medical practitioners who value professional development and are able to contribute meaningfully to holistic healthcare
- To develop, provide, and promote research capacity in TCAM and products for uptake
- To improve the promotion and public perception of TCAM as a valid form of treatment
- To promote the proper use of TCAM in Ghana
- To facilitate the integration of TCAM into allopathic healthcare approaches for improved healthcare in Ghana and beyond.
DEPARTMENTS
The Institute of Traditional and Alternative Medicine (ITAM), UHAS is comprised of six departments, namely:
1. Department of Traditional Medicine
2. Department of Complementary & Alternative Medicines
3. Department of Natural Products Sourcing
4. Department of Education and Advocacy
GOVERNANCE
ITAM is headed by a Director who reports directly to the Vice Chancellor. The Departments are supervised by Heads of Departments, who report to the Director of the Institute. The Institute is supported by an administrator who runs the general administration of the Institute. The Institute also has management and advisory boards that oversee its functions.
