Saturday, May 4, 2024
5/4/2024
American Indians/Alaska Natives are disproportionally impacted by diabetes and other chronic health conditions. The Chickahominy Indian Tribe is no exception, with 51 out of 64 diabetes needs assessment respondents reporting some form of diabetes (e.g., pre, gestational, diabetes). With many tribal citizens living within minutes of the Chickahominy Tribal Center in Charles City County, Virginia, their access to nutritious foods and diabetes-related health services can be challenging due to the rural location. Without a local grocery store and only 1 health facility, compliance with diabetes and health care in general, to include healthy eating and physical activity, may often hit a roadblock. Implementation of programs and services related to diabetes education will provide a roadmap for the tribal community to navigate diabetes, and in some cases, prevent it before it’s too late. Tribal citizens with pre-diabetes, gestational diabetes, and diabetes will gain knowledge and education related to diabetes and how it impacts their overall health. Key elements to diabetes prevention, management, and compliance will be highlighted: (a) healthy eating/access to nutritious foods, (b) physical activity, and (c) blood glucose monitoring/control. Through a series of workshops, clinics, and classes, citizens will: (a) learn to select and prepare healthy foods, including traditional foods, (b) engage in physical activity (e.g., walking groups, chair exercises, and Native dance), (c) participate in clinics with tribal nurses (e.g., assessment of vital signs, blood glucose levels, and foot health), and (d) participate in support groups to learn from and support one another in the diabetes journey. Anticipated improved health outcomes include: (a) increased compliance (e.g., managing blood glucose levels and taking prescribed medications), (b) healthier eating habits (e.g., healthy food choices and preparation), (c) increased physical activity (e.g., regular pa rticipation in walking groups or physical exercise), and (d) increased social support in managing and coping with diabetes (e.g., participation in support groups and improved mental health). Tools to measure such outcomes include: (a) participant surveys, (b) feedback, and (c) nurse assessments from clinics. Current and future partnerships with community organizations that have the expertise, resources, and tools will provide added support for tribal staff to implement a robust education program. Tribal citizens will be armed with the necessary knowledge and tools to take control of their health. The goal of the program activities and services is not short-term, but rather long-term. The education and improved health outcomes will create a lifestyle change and new way of thinking about food and illness for the tribal community. They will live longer, healthier lives, ensuring a healthier community for the next seven generations.
HHS’ Tracking Accountability in Government Grants System (TAGGS) website provides access to detailed descriptions of grants, loans, aggregated direct payments and other types of financial assistance awarded by the HHS Operating Divisions (OPDIVs) and the Office of the Secretary Staff Divisions (STAFFDIVs).
