Program
The first step is providing an annual supply of Tibetan medications, employing the Buddhist nuns of Yangchen Choeling and Sherab Choling convents in the valley. Harvesting, stocking and preparation of the vegetable and mineral treatments will be put forth with the guidance of the local doctors. The derived treatments will then be distributed free of charge to all doctors of the valley. This is to counteract as much as possible the hindrances of the winter months. The custom payment method will not change: the patient will pay according to his financial resources only. This is to encourage a self financed project for the future.
A further step is to aid nuns in gaining knowledge of the Tibetan medical culture. The nuns all expressed this wish and this has become a priority area for the Association's program. The doctors' know-how transmitted to the sisters will decrease the chances of its extinction as the people have limited access to obtain these competences. For this reason it has become of essence, to preserve the culture and to involve them in this project right from the start. Also, to reach more economic sources, networking and exchanging experiences with other same oriented associations is part of the policy.
The Near Future (2004)
A general meeting of the doctors in the valley and the construction of a school location.
For the upcoming year (2004) a meeting will be scheduled between all doctors (Tibetan Amchis, Lamas and Shamans, resident in the valley, This meeting is meant to create contact between all those involved in healthcare and develop a future exchange network of each single treatment method, as well as the issuing of a monthly medical magazine. Another aim of this meeting is to give the opportunity to plan the construction of a school and discuss its location in the valley. ( What is the easiest way to reach the school in the wintertime? Are lodgings required or can students be hosted in the village. Will the courses take place only in the summertime?)
Duration
Forecast for this long term project ranges from 10 to 15 years. The outcome prospected will be one of a self sustained project by the inlanders.