The WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre (GTMC) Primary Health Care and Universal Health Coverage Unit is committed to strengthening traditional medicine’s integration into national health systems using a data-driven Primary Health Care (PHC) approach. This ensures equitable access to safe, high-quality traditional medicine towards realizing universal health coverage (UHC) and Health for All.

WHO's International Classification of Diseases 11th revision (ICD-11), TM Module 1 and 2

GTMC has commissioned policy reviews on Member States’ governance of traditional medicine and integration into health systems. A key priority is strengthening traditional medicine data, including through the the WHO's International Classification of Diseases 11th revision (ICD-11), TM Modules, which enhance health information systems by standardizing data collection. Improved data improves patient safety, supports research, and informs policy and practice decisions. GTMC’s focus extends to strengthening traditional medicine data across all relevant health and multisectoral areas, including workforce, quality of care, financing, education, economy, biodiversity, equity and others. Fostering collaboration across multiple sectors and governments is essential to create supportive policies and environments.

Aligned with the PHC approach, the Unit prioritizes evidence-based integration of traditional medicine services at all levels of the health system as relevant, supporting communities’ informed health choices by valuing cultural heritage and local knowledge and sharing scientific guidance for health and well-being of people and planet.