A vision for public health through a Native Hawaiian perspective

Background: In order to effectively improve health among Native Hawaiians, there is a need for a comprehensive and coordinated plan for the provision of services. Key informant interviews and public program information from Native Hawaiian organizations and agencies were assessed to identify commonalities and areas for collaboration. Methods: Qualitative data was analyzed using gold standard analysis techniques. Interview questions were pre-developed with research team. Questions were open‐ended, logically progressing from topic to topic. Themes were identified and analyzed using NVIVO software. Key themes identified were the components included in a public health framework for Native Hawaiian health and well-being. Results: Ten key informant interviews were conducted and included in the analyses. Key informants were representatives of leading Native Hawaiian service organizations. In addition to interview transcripts, content analyses were performed on mission statements, websites, strategic planning documents and other information material available on the organizations. Conclusion: There is a great need for coordinated, holistic and comprehensive services for Native Hawaiian people. Many organizations provide those much needed services, however very few organizations have coordinated strategic plans that comprehensibly take into consideration the mission and services of other Native Hawaiian serving entities. Findings from this study report that a coordinated inter-agency strategic planning convening could reduce overlapping services and improve coordination of services for Native Hawaiians.