The clash between Western (or scientific) and traditional approaches to medicine has existed for many years. The conceptual differences between the two schools of thought have led to distrust among researchers regarding their representation. Each of the approaches may be effective in some medical cases and none may offer complete solutions in others. However, the Western approach has proven to be much more effective in treating serious and life-threatening illnesses that require complex diagnostics, surgeries, and medications. South Africa, where the HIV/AIDS epidemic claims countless lives every day, could greatly benefit from the medical knowledge provided by Western doctors. At the same time, for political, cultural and economic reasons, traditional healing remains the dominant method in this country. Trusted by local people and an integral part of local culture, traditional healers can play a key role in establishing trust between local people and Western doctors. Western medicine, or scientific medicine, primarily uses medications and surgical procedures to treat patients. Its treatments are based on diagnoses provided by qualified doctors and nurses. Generally, the approach involves treating the symptoms of various diseases and conditions. Western medicine relies heavily on science and scientific research, particularly in chemistry and biology. Traditional medicine is mainly practiced in Asia, South America and Africa. Unlike Western medicine, it draws on the powers of natural resources, spirituality and physical contact. Typically, traditional healers do not attend formal medical schools; they are trained by other healers within their communities. They use herbs, animals, minerals, a...... middle of paper...... Culture and controversy. M. E. Sharpe, Inc. Print. Bolognesi, Natasha. AIDS in Africa: a question of trust. Nature 443.7112 (October 12, 2006): 626-627. Print. Himmel, Martin. “Sangomas.” Witness. Al Jazeera. Doha, Qatar. June 14, 2009. the web. November 21, 2013.Liverpool, Joan, at el. “Western medicine and traditional healers: partners in the fight against HIV/AIDS. » Journal of the National Medical Association 96.6 (June 2004): 823. Print. November 21, 2013. McVeigh, Karen. "Steve Jobs regretted delaying cancer surgery, biographer tells CBS". The Guardian. October 21, 2011. The web. November 24, 2013. Steinberg, Jonny. Sizwe test. New York: Simon & Schuster, 2008. Print. Swaine, Jon. “Steve Jobs regretted trying to beat cancer with alternative medicine for so long.” The telegraph. October 21, 2011. The web. November 24, 2013. “The World Factbook.” CIA. Central Intelligence Agency, 2014. Web. November 24 2013.