Based on tribal community input anf the Tunica Biloxi Health Department's diabetes statistics, the
Tunica Biloxi Health Department has identified the prevention and treatment of DMII as the major
health issue facing the tribe. Within our community, there is a lack of culturally appropriate diabetes
prevention and treatment services. From Nutrition and diet to community outreach in rural areas,
many tribal citizens have stated they are unaware of the causes and prevention of DMII, and what
preventive measures are available to them. This problem was especially noted among tribal elders
(tribal members 55 and older). General nutritional education such as healthy eating habits and
what foods to avoid in order to control and prevent DMII is needed in our tribal community.
Tunica Biloxi Health Department along with the support of Chairman Marshall Pierite, has
tentative plans to implement the following activities:
Year 1
* Diabetes Clinical care: Annual check-ups and managed care as needed
* Monthly community meetings and activities
* Healthy Food Distribution
* Diabetes compliance monitoring and testing (A1C,glucose, etc.)
* Care and education referrals to community partners
* Health and Wellness Passport Program.
* Annual Health Fair
The Tunica Biloxi Health Department has expanded its clinical services and have opened a full
service clinic. The diabetes care and prevention program is located in the Health Department with
staff for both programs. Diabetes clinical care, check- ups and diabetic testing supplies are
distributed as needed.Monthly SDPI meetings and activities are held at the tribal commuity center
where diabetes education is held. There is a community health divison that is being expanded to
integrate clinical care with community health to focus on health promotion and disease
prevention using a wrap around service model that addresses determinants of health at various
levels of socio-ecological factors. The Health Dept. is working with the local farmers market to
provide fresh produce at a reduced cost to our members as well as implementing a Health and
Wellness Passport Program where our members are encouraged to participate in health and
wellness check-ups where incentives for completion can be earned.There are tentative plans for a
Annual Health Fair to be held here on the Tunica Biloxi Reservation. The health fair will not only
provide general information about good health and preventative medicne. They also offer
screenings and assessments -blood pressure or cardiovascular health- that can detect a problem
and get attendees on a track to a healthier self. It is a great way to launch new wellness initatives,
share health education information, conduct preventative screenings and immunizations, raise
awareness of health risks like diabetes, demostrate healthy habits and promote organizational
benefits and community resources. We at theTunica-Biloxi Health Deptartment belive in helping
people live the healthiest lives possible. The central purpose of a community health fair is to help
individuals be healthier by seeking to engage the members in conservation about common health
issues and concerns.