Dr. Pia Vuolanto is a Research Fellow at Tampere University, Finland. With an interdisciplinary background that spans both sociology and nursing, her current research focuses on the academic institutionalization of Traditional, Complementary, and Integrative Medicine (TCIM), as defined by the World Health Organization. (WHO TCIM overview)
"I began my career as a nurse in the mid-1990s but eventually felt compelled to continue my education. This decision led me to pursue a master’s degree in nursing science," Pia explains, and continues:
"I was still eager to explore a different path, so I began studying the philosophy and sociology of science. In 2004, I was recruited by the Research Centre for Science, Technology and Innovation Studies at Tampere University. I've been there ever since—conducting research for over 20 years."
Exploring the development of TCIM research
In her current project, Pia is investigating the academic institutionalization of TCIM research in different European countries. This involves gaining an overview of the development of research into the field and identifying the factors that drive it.
“I’m trying to understand how the academic field of TCIM research has evolved over time; through studies, scientific publications, and other research contributions,” she says, adding:
“Furthermore, I want to examine the organisational structures of environments that conduct TCIM research. In particular, I will be looking at organisations such as NAFKAM, which have an established infrastructure to conduct CAM research, and their role in the development of the field.”
Visiting NAFKAM
Pia visited NAFKAM to interview researchers affiliated with the centre. Her aim was to learn more about their career paths and perspectives on the development of TCIM research, what has been accomplished in the field, and how researching TCIM compares with studying other areas of healthcare.
"Alongside interviews, I am collecting a variety of organizational documents—ranging from internal reports and evaluation materials to public statements on websites. I will analyse these texts in order to understand how institutions have developed, are funded and operate."
Comparing six European countries
Pia will compare the development of TCIM research in six European countries: Norway, Sweden, Finland, Germany, Switzerland and Italy.
“I’m currently studying developments in Norway and have already conducted extensive research in Finland, which I am using as a case study for comparison. Norway has NAFKAM, an official and established centre for TCIM research, while Finland has no equivalent. TCIM research in Finland lacks organization and does not enjoy the same status. We also have no legislation regulating TCIM practices or services, which affects its position in the healthcare system."
The other countries were selected for their established or historical engagement with TCIM—whether through legislation, research activity, or public use.
"Finland is an example of a country without a coordinating institution for TCIM research, whereas Norway has had one for 25 years. Germany, too, lacks a national TCIM centre like NAFKAM, although it does have research clusters whose roles and statuses differ significantly."
Aiming for new perspectives
“With this project, I hope to provide new theoretical perspectives on academic transformation and the institutionalisation of new research fields. TCIM and the development of the field remain controversial topics, both academically and socially.
"My research may help inform discussions about the societal relevance of TCIM in different healthcare systems, universities, and countries.
