271448 Native Generations

Monday, October 29, 2012 : 4:57 PM - 5:00 PM

Shira P. Rutman, MPH , Urban Indian Health Institute, Seattle Indian Health Board, Seattle, WA
Often overlooked by society at-large, this video introduces American Indians and Alaska Natives (AI/ANs) living in urban areas, who account for two-thirds of the AI/AN population. In addition to data on the high infant mortality rates and maternal and child health needs among urban AI/ANs, the video emphasizes prevention of infant deaths through connection to community resources, support systems and Native culture. Current challenges for AI/ANs in urban areas are contextualized in the history of removal and relocation from their homelands and the resulting disconnection from family members, tribal healthcare systems and the sharing of parenting knowledge and traditions. A nationwide network of urban Indian health organizations (UIHOs) that provide health services, cultural activities, and connection to community support in 19 different states is described. Throughout the video, staff of UIHOs located in Detroit, Michigan and Seattle, Washington are interviewed about the important services they offer. They discuss how the programs provide more than just healthcare, but also serve as a cultural home, an extended family and a support system for urban AI/ANs. Innovative and critical programs are highlighted, including a Native Healthy Start playgroup and home visits in Detroit and a perinatal support group in Seattle. Young urban AI/AN parents discuss the valuable opportunities that UIHOs provide for learning cultural traditions, connecting to their local AI/AN community and receiving healthcare and support services, including community meals, diapers and other needed resources. These community members also share the important aspects of receiving care in a non-judgmental, comfortable environment, which uniquely values them and their babies in a world that often does not even know they exist. A resource for information about connecting to UIHOs and learning more about urban AI/ANs is shared at the conclusion of the video, encouraging viewers to become engaged in issues of urban Indian health. 012-->

Learning Areas:
Communication and informatics
Diversity and culture
Implementation of health education strategies, interventions and programs

Learning Objectives:
1) Describe infant mortality rates and other maternal and child health statistics among urban American Indians and Alaska Natives (AI/ANs). 2) Identify Native-specific resources and community support for preventing infant mortality among urban AI/ANs.

Keywords: American Indians, Alaska Natives

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I have worked in maternal and child health for 13 years and American Indian health for over 6 years. I designed, coordinated and assisted in production of the video.
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.

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