Madeleine Abena Tuson-Turner

Biography and Expertise of Madeleine Abena Tuson-Turner

Dr. Madeleine Abena Tuson-Turner is a pioneering figure whose work exemplifies the powerful intersection of traditional naturopathic medicine and modern global health. Based in Oregon, USA, she operates a clinical practice focused on regenerative medicine while simultaneously dedicating a significant portion of her time to advancing health equity in Ghana, West Africa. This dual focus has provided her with a unique, grounded perspective on implementing integrative health solutions in diverse cultural and economic settings.

Her contributions are particularly relevant to the 3rd WCTCIM’s thematic axes, especially “Integration of TCIM into Health Systems” and “TCIM Education and Training.” As the former Medical Director of Ghana’s first integrative medicine clinic and a faculty member at institutions in both the US and Ghana, she has direct experience building the educational and clinical infrastructure necessary for sustainable integration. Furthermore, her long-term collaboration with the Ghana Health Service since 2009 perfectly illustrates the congress’s emphasis on South-South collaboration and fostering “Well-being Societies.” Dr. Tuson-Turner’s work demonstrates how respectful partnership and knowledge sharing can strengthen public health systems globally.

Professional Career

Dr. Madeleine Abena Tuson-Turner’s career reflects a deep commitment to service, education, and leadership in naturopathic medicine. She balances clinical care with strategic work to advance the profession nationally and internationally, shaping policies and educational standards that govern its future.

Her roles create a comprehensive portfolio spanning clinical practice, academic instruction, and global governance, demonstrating a clear progression from local to global leadership.

• Secretary: World Naturopathic Federation (WNF), where she helps guide the global strategy and collaboration for the naturopathic profession.
• Co-chair, Education Committee: World Naturopathic Federation, contributing to the development of international educational standards and best practices.
• Faculty Member: National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM), USA, teaching in the Naturopathic, Global Health, and Integrative Medicine Research departments.
• Faculty Member: Nyarkotey University College of Holistic Medicine & Technology (NUCHMT), Ghana, supporting the growth of naturopathic education in West Africa.
• Past Board Member: American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP), helping to steer the profession’s national organization in the United States.
• Past Chairperson, Global Health Committee: American Association of Naturopathic Physicians, leading initiatives to expand the reach and impact of naturopathic medicine globally.
• Medical Director: Served as the inaugural Medical Director at the first integrative medicine clinic in Ghana, pioneering a new model of healthcare delivery.

Academic Qualifications of Madeleine Abena Tuson-Turner

Dr. Madeleine Abena Tuson-Turner‘s academic background is a testament to her multidisciplinary approach to health and healing. Her education deliberately combines rigorous training in naturopathic medicine with deep explorations into medical anthropology, global health, and integrative research. This unique combination provides her with the tools to understand health not only from a biomedical perspective but also within its complex cultural and social contexts.

This comprehensive foundation is essential to her work in global health, enabling her to design and implement programs that are both scientifically sound and culturally sensitive. Her qualifications reflect a dedication to lifelong learning and a belief in the power of an integrated, evidence-informed education.

• Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine (ND): Provided her with foundational expertise in naturopathic principles and modalities, forming the core of her clinical practice.
• Master of Science in Global Health (MSGH): Equipped her with the skills to address health challenges on a global scale, focusing on health equity and systems-level solutions.
• Master of Science in Integrative Medical Research (MScR): Honed her ability to critically evaluate and contribute to the scientific evidence base for integrative medicine.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Medical Anthropology: Gave her a crucial understanding of how culture shapes perceptions of health, illness, and treatment, which informs her cross-cultural work.
• Certificate in Natural Childbirth: Offered specialized knowledge in a key area of lifespan health, directly influencing her research on maternal health experiences in Ghana.

Research and Publications

Dr. Madeleine Abena Tuson-Turner actively contributes to the scholarly foundation of naturopathic and integrative medicine, translating her clinical and field experience into valuable academic work. Her research is characterized by its practical application and its focus on understanding patient experiences within diverse healthcare landscapes. This work is critical for building the evidence base that health systems require for the meaningful integration of TCIM, aligning with the principles of the Gujarat Declaration.

A cornerstone of her research is her master’s thesis, a mixed-methods study on the maternal childbirth experience in Ghana. This project explored the interplay between patient perceptions of conventional medical care and the use of integrative therapies. Such research embodies the congress motto of “Knowledge Diversity,” as it gives voice to patient perspectives and uncovers the nuanced ways people navigate their health choices. Therefore, her work provides actionable insights for creating more patient-centered and culturally competent healthcare services.

Beyond her thesis, Madeleine Abena Tuson-Turner is a contributing author to the *Health Technology Assessment 2021 volume on Naturopathy*. This significant publication systematically reviews the practice, effectiveness, economics, and safety of naturopathic medicine, providing a crucial resource for policymakers, researchers, and healthcare administrators. Her contribution to this volume underscores her commitment to the scientific validation and transparent evaluation of traditional and complementary medicine.

Awards and Recognitions

The dedication and impactful contributions of Dr. Madeleine Abena Tuson-Turner to the field of global health have been formally recognized by her academic peers. These honors highlight her unique ability to forge meaningful and lasting connections between institutions and communities across continents. Such recognition validates her approach to global health, which prioritizes sustainability, mutual respect, and collaborative partnership over short-term interventions.

This award serves not only as a personal achievement but also as an inspiration for the next generation of healthcare professionals committed to global service. Consequently, it reflects the values of ethical engagement and long-term vision that are essential for advancing planetary health and well-being societies.

• Globe Trotter Award: Presented by the National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM), this prestigious award honors individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to establishing and nurturing enduring educational and research partnerships in global health. Dr. Tuson-Turner received this award for her pioneering work in Ghana, which has created valuable opportunities for cross-cultural learning and collaborative research.

Board and Committee Activities

Dr. Madeleine Abena Tuson-Turner demonstrates a profound commitment to professional service through her active leadership in key national and international organizations. Her involvement in these boards and committees is instrumental in shaping the strategic direction, educational standards, and global reach of the naturopathic profession. These roles require a significant investment of time and expertise, reflecting her dedication to building a robust and respected field of medicine.

Through these leadership positions, she advocates for the integration of naturopathic medicine into broader healthcare systems and works to ensure the profession is governed by high standards of ethics and evidence. Her influence is therefore crucial for the continued development and global recognition of naturopathic medicine.

• World Naturopathic Federation (WNF): As Secretary and Co-chair of the Education Committee, she is at the forefront of efforts to harmonize educational standards, promote research, and support the regulation of naturopathic medicine worldwide.
• American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP): In her past roles as a board member and Chairperson of the Global Health Committee, she contributed to the growth of the profession within the United States and helped build bridges for international collaboration and service.

Connect with Dr. Tuson-Turner

To learn more about the work of Dr. Madeleine Abena Tuson-Turner, including her clinical practice in regenerative medicine and her ongoing contributions to global health, please visit her professional platforms. These resources offer further details on her services, expertise, and vision for integrative healthcare.

Official Clinic Website: Tuson Turner Regenerative Medicine

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