A paediatric report on Bhutan.

These data from Thimphu General Hospital constitute the first published report of child health in the Kingdom of Bhutan. The unique geopolitical, social and health situation of the children of Bhutan is little known to the West. Hospital data from 1980 to 1982 provided the descriptive setting for the establishment of a paediatric referral service in 1983. Western medical care is gradually being introduced to the people, who live in stable traditional social structures and patterns. An understanding of the pre-existing health care systems and practices is essential to planning appropriate integration of acute medical care into the rich culture with minimal social dislocation and maximal medical efficacy.