Working with Native Hawaiian communities to implement research

Efforts are being made to improve the health outcomes of Native Hawaiians through the use of community-based participatory research (CBPR). The adoption of CBPR principles by Ke Ola Mamo, the Native Hawaiian Health Care System on O`ahu, has provided opportunities to address diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, asthma and cancer.

Since 2002, Ke Ola Mamo has partnered with university faculty researchers, community agencies, and community participants to address, design and implement programs aimed to restore the overall well-being of Native Hawaiians. Working together has improved the communities trust in researchers and strengthened the community's participation in research activity.

Through the use of CBPR, Ke Ola Mamo has implemented five research projects focused on improving the health and well-being of its community. Projects focused on assessing the needs of the community, prioritizing project findings, and delivering a culturally tailored intervention. The key to successful implementation to conduct research within a community requires mutual agreement on the research topic, effective communication including research purpose, patience and commitment by all partners.

Building on the relationships established over the past decade, Ke Ola Mamo is committed to improving the health outcomes of Native Hawaiians through partnerships with community and academia. Native Hawaiian health will improve through the delivery of culturally tailored health programs which are guided by evidence-based practices.