Introduction: This study explored the perspectives of traditional health care practitioners (THPs) practicing in the areas of herbalism, bone setting, and traditional birth attendance, from Akwa Ibom state, Nigeria, on the possibility and implications of applying informed consent (IC) during African traditional medicine (ATM) practice. Methods: Semistructured interviews were conducted with 11 THPs, consisting of 5 herbalists, 3 traditional bone setters (TBS), and 3 traditional birth attendants (TBAs), who represented the diverse groups that the study intended to cover. In-depth interviews were conducted using a semistructured guide and were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analysis with the assistance of NVivo® qualitative analysis software. Results: Participants were seven males (64%) and four females (36%), 35-67 years of age, with 5-25 years of experience as THPs. Forty-six percent of participants were herbalists (27%), TBS, and TBAs (27%). Most participants (82%) were Annang, and (18%) were Ibibio first-language speakers. Three major themes emerged from the data analysis: (i) Existing ethical framework related to IC, (ii) knowledge of consent, and (iii) application of IC during traditional medical practice. These themes and relevant subthemes were explored. All (100%) THPs agreed that it was essential to communicate risks and benefits while allowing patients to ask questions before treatment. All participants (100%) stated that risk communication is essential in ATM, whereas 36% said they communicated all therapy benefits to their patients. Respondents believed patients could make an informed choice if they had complete information disclosure. However, THPs in this study had limited knowledge of formal IC rules and regulations. Conclusions: This study revealed that THPs in this setting disclose a diagnosis, risks, some benefits, and treatment options to patients. Consent/agreement was obtained verbally and voluntarily during ATM practice, consistent with IC doctrine. THPs had limited knowledge of the critical elements of IC. However, they suggested that a form of IC that does not conflict with traditional African norms could be applicable in ATM. IC could facilitate documentation and help reduce risks in ATM practice.
Keywords: ATM; Africa; Nigeria; bioethics; birth attendants; bone setting; consent; herbalism; informed consent; traditional health practitioners; traditional medicine.