Knowledge and Understanding for Health Service in Islamic Ways

Abstract

This research was a part of the research project entitled “Needs for Thai Muslims: Gaps in the Thai Health Service System.” The objective of this research was to study the knowledge and understanding of hospital executives about health service based on Islamic ways. Key informants were 21 representatives of hospital executives from 8 government hospitals under supervision of the Ministry of Public Health. A knowledge test and in-depth interview form were used as the research tools. Statistical and content analyses were used for data analysis and conculusions and important finding were presented. The results showed that overall knowledge and understanding of the key informants about the topic was rated at a low level (58.39%) and they lacked knowledge and had some misunderstandings about Islamic ways. Especially the issues of halal food and places for ablution. The levels of knowledge and understanding about health service based on Islamic ways varied for each item. Firstly, they had high levels of knowledge and understanding with regards to (1) nutrition, food and drugs (84.52%) and (2) place for ablution and prayer room (84.52%). Secondly, they had moderate levels of knowledge and understanding with regards to (1) treatment and physical examination (74.28%) and (2) end of life care (79.05%). But they had low levels of knowledge and understanding with regards to (1) family planning (26.19%), (2) fasting (30.48%), (3) maternal and child health, blood donation and visiting patients (38.10%) and (4) exercise (50.00%).