The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

3329.0: Monday, November 17, 2003 - 5:24 PM

Abstract #74424

Access, relevance, and control in the research process: Lessons from indian country-running head: Research and american indians

Spero Manson, PhD, Division of American Indian and Alaska Native Programs, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, PO Box 6508, Mail Stop F800, Nighthorse Campbell Native Health Building, Aurora, CO 80045-0508, (303) 724-1449, spero.manson@uchsc.edu

Objective: To illustrate successful strategies in working with American Indian (AI) communities to conduct aging and health research, with special emphasis on negotiating access, crafting locally relevant studies, and the decision-making processes.

Design: Case examples of health studies among 3 distinct AI communities illustrate marked similarities in expectations regarding key elements of the research process.

Setting: Eastern Band Cherokee Indians, a federally recognized reservation; Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma, a rural, non-reservation Tribal jurisdictional service area; Lakota tribal members living in Rapid City, SD.

Participants: Older AIs (>50 years of age) participating in 3 different health studies that explore need for and use of long-term care services, provider/patient medical communication, and knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about tobacco use.

Main Results: Local review and decision-making procedures reflect the unique legal and historical factors underpinning AI sovereignty. Though specific approval procedures vary, there are common expectations across these communities that investigators can anticipate in conceptualizing, designing, and implementing health research among Native elders.

Learning Objectives:

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

Innovations to Eliminate Racial & Ethnic Disparities in Health Care

The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA