Beyond the Clinic: Honoring Native American Traditions and Wellness

In the month of November, as we observe Native American Heritage Month, we honor health centers committed to serving more than 400,000 Native American and Indigenous patients. Native American Heritage Month recognizes the rich heritage and significant contributions of Native American and Indigenous peoples. As we honor Native American Heritage Month, we recognize the vital role of Community Health Centers in providing culturally competent care to address health disparities and improve overall health outcomes of Native American and Indigenous communities.

Health disparities within Native American and Indigenous communities are a pressing concern, as their life expectancy falls 4.4 years short of the general U.S. population, and they experience disproportionately higher rates of preventable illnesses like diabetes, chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and chronic lower respiratory diseases. Health centers are instrumental in addressing these disparities, improving health outcomes, and restoring justice and respect for these communities' heritage and resilience.

Health centers address disparities and restore justice and respect for Native communities

Federally qualified health centers like the Native American Community Clinic (NACC) and NATIVE HEALTH play a crucial role in providing comprehensive healthcare services to Native American communities nationwide. The Native American Community Clinic (NACC) in Minneapolis, Minnesota, led by Dr. Antony Stately, the center's first Native American CEO, is dedicated to promoting the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of Native American families.

Dr. Stately, a member of the Ojibwe and Oneida tribes, understands the unique concept of health held by many Native Americans, which often encompasses broader factors than those found in mainstream Western culture. At NACC, he works to integrate traditional healing practices with Western medicine, emphasizing the importance of spirituality, family wellness, community well-being, and personal balance.

NACC offers a wide range of services, including general healthcare, chronic disease management, preventive care, mental health support, substance abuse programs, support groups, dental care, and access to spiritual care and traditional healing practices. Committed to addressing health disparities and promoting equity, NACC serves Native American families in the Twin Cities area. As Dr. Stately says:

"Before we can improve the health of individuals and communities, we must carefully consider our work-its purpose and who it benefits. We're on that path, moving forward in a new direction."

NATIVE HEALTH provides holistic and culturally sensitive services

NATIVE HEALTH, a Community Health Center in Phoenix, Arizona, provides holistic, patient-centered, and culturally sensitive health and wellness services. They offer a comprehensive range of care, including primary medical care, dental services, behavioral health support, and community health programs. Grounded in Indigenous Values, NATIVE HEALTH integrates traditional practices into all aspects of their services.

From virtual Talking Circles and a Traditional Garden to Cultural Group Connections and early childhood programs, the center offers a variety of opportunities for community members to connect with their cultural heritage.

For example, NATIVE HEALTH hosts an annual Traditional Children's Pageant where Native American youth showcase their traditional regalia and perform indigenous activities. Judged by Tribal Royalty, this popular event fosters pride in heritage, encourages youth to continue their traditions, and highlights the connection between health and cultural celebration.

As Susan Levy, NATIVE HEALTH's Communication Coordinator and Volunteers/Community Involvement leader, explains, "This event fosters a sense of pride and belonging among Native American youth while promoting a positive connection between health and culture."

Overall, the NATIVE HEALTH team embodies the center's core values of being ever-present, supportive, and culturally responsive to the Native American and Indigenous People communities.

Both health centers are part of a network of health centers that collectively serve over 500 tribes nationwide, ensuring that Native American communities receive the care and support they need to thrive. As we celebrate Native American Heritage Month, it's important to recognize the invaluable contributions of health centers like NACC and NATIVE HEALTH.

By addressing health disparities and promoting health equity, these health centers are instrumental in enhancing the overall well-being of Native American communities. Their dedication to preserving and celebrating the diverse traditions and resilience of these communities is essential for securing a future where Native American and Indigenous peoples not only have access to quality healthcare but also thrive within their rich cultural heritage. Let's work together to support these remarkable health centers and spread awareness about their crucial role in achieving health equity. By sharing this blog post, we can celebrate the resilience and traditions of Native American and Indigenous peoples throughout the year, not just during Native American Heritage Month.