I agree, many of these terms have a bias. Terms such Eastern or Western style often have thier own implied values. Most practices are just lumped togather based on how they are viewed by the dominant society.
These terms generally don’t describe the theories behind the how the medical system diagnose and treat ailments. They tend to be overly broad term and often don’t include any idea of whether practices might be influenced by religious or cultural elements.
We need to use terms that are both objective and clear. Consumers should be able to understand what the specific type of medicine being practiced. End-users such a individuals and researchers should be able to get unbiased data on the medical services offered in an region.
Here is a short list of medical professionals we need to be able to handle. We also need to support the use of the culturally correct terminology.
“Western” Ob/gyn MD
“Engery-based” Rieki practitioner
Christian faith healer
Witch doctor
We really have to work on getting the terminology correct!