History of traditional Mongolian medical education based on Manba Datsan: A literature review

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Traditional Mongolian Medical Education (TMME) was developed based on Manba Datsan (MD) in harmony with the Buddhist philosophy‐medical system in Mongolia. It was developed intensively during the 17th–20th centuries and was interrupted for a while, but it is still a part of medical care in Mongolia, training traditional medicine doctors and nurses. Its historical roots are inextricably linked with medical and philosophical development not only among Mongolians, but also in some Oriental and Western countries. This review aims to raise awareness and promote TMM, following the WHO guidelines on traditional medicines. METHODS: Relevant literatures from Google Scholar, PubMed, Mongolian national and university libraries in the past 30 years were collected in this article, and books, of which the history, philosophy, and culture of TMM were analyzed. We used inductive analysis within the constructivist paradigm and conducted the research as follows: (I) analyze relevant literature reviews; (II) formulate the historical periodization of Mongolian medical education (MME); (III) explore an overview of the philosophies that have been influenced by TMME; and (IV) study the contents and phases of MD training in Mongolia. RESULTS: An integrated version of the historical periodization of the MME was developed with fully compatible historical periodization based on important socio‐political turning points in Mongolia. TMME has been clarified by the direct and mutual influence of Oriental, and Western medical concepts. Between the 17th and 20th centuries, TMME was developed based on MD. Since 1990, the training process has been conducted in accordance with the international standards of modern vocational and higher education. CONCLUSION: Traditional Mongolian Medical Education was formed by underpinnings of the achievements of Mongolian national practical and folk medicine. This process was greatly influenced by the traditions of the Mongolian education system and achievements of oriental medical education.