Presenters
- Patti Robinson, Ph.D.
- Kristie Knows-His-Gun, PsyD, ABPP
- Christina Cruz, PsyD
Summary
American Indians and Alaska Natives born today are expected to die 5.5 years earlier than the United States all races population (73.0 years to 78.5 years, respectively). They die at higher rates than other Americans in many categories, including diabetes mellitus, assault/homicide, intentional self-harm/suicide, and chronic lower respiratory diseases. This presentation will describe barriers to health care experienced by Native Americans, including stigma and lack of a spiritual focus. The presenters will also suggest best practices for providing primary care services to Native Americans. A case presentation will be used to demonstrate a tool for better engaging Native Americans in care. Participants will have an opportunity to discuss recommended engagement strategies and the intervention tool (The Life Circle) illustrated in the case presentation.
Objectives
- State the life expectancy of American Indians and Alaskan Natives relative to the United States all races population.
- List two or more barriers to care experienced by Native Americans.
- Describe a suggested practice tool for engaging Native Americans in primary care services.
