The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe is a federally recognized Tribe, located in a rural area in WA State. It is lead by the Muckleshoot Tribal Council and offers many services to its members and other natives living in the community. The Tribal Council oversees the Muckleshoot Health and Wellness Center (HWC) which manages the SDPI Diabetes Program, as well as the Medical, Dental, Optical, Pharmacy, Fitness Center, Business Office, and Behavioral Health departments.
Diabetes prevalence and prediabetes are major concerns for the Muckleshoot Tribe. Diabetic care is getting more complex and costly. Factoring in the escalating numbers of patients (adults and children) with obesity issues, many of whom will become diabetics in the next 5-10 years, the need for education and intervention is huge.
The Muckleshoot SDPI Program has chosen “Diabetes-related Education” for its best practice, because it will allow resources to help our diabetics and also allow us to reach out to the adult and youth population who are at risk of developing diabetes. In continuing the momentum from last year’s grant, the SDPI Program will focus on nutrition education and physical activity for 2016.
Best Practice: Diabetes-related Education
Target Population (137 Total)
1. 50 diabetics on the IHS Registry who’s last HgbA1C was 8.5 or over
2. 41 youths with a BMI of 35 or over
3. 46 adults with a BMI of 50 or over
Activity Highlights: Focus on weight loss education and monitoring healthy lifestyle changes.
Areas to improve: Reduce the refusal rate for diabetic foot exams, increase screening for diminished kidney function, and increase medication reviews for diabetics who are at high risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
The Muckleshoot Health and Wellness Center has dedicated and experienced staff who works collaboratively with the SDPI Program. Representatives from Medical, Dental, Optical, and Pharmacy meet regularly with the SDPI team to coordinate diabetic outreach and activities. SDPI funding allows us to dedicate 2 staff positions, update fitness equipment, and to continue with special diabetes projects, such as providing diabetic shoes or participating in educational community events.
The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe appreciates the opportunity to continue with the SDPI grant to help support the diabetic population.