The health disparities faced by Native American communities in North America are among the most severe and persistent. These communities experience significantly worse healthcare outcomes compared to the general population, with higher rates of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, chronic respiratory disease, and diabetes. These disparities are compounded by a lack of access to the latest medical knowledge and continuing education opportunities for healthcare providers serving Native American populations.

 

Our Project

Through the Burke Foundation for Native American Health Corp, aims to address these critical gaps by providing Native American physicians with essential medical information and Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits at no cost.

 

As an academic physician specializing in the treatment of brain injury, I have spent the last 25 years working in close collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) to facilitate the monthly distribution of medical research summaries to underserved and remote regions of the world. These summaries, drawn from the most prestigious medical journals, have helped improve healthcare by bringing cutting-edge research directly to clinicians who otherwise would not have access to it. This initiative has grown exponentially, with our monthly publication now reaching 750 universities and numerous national and international medical societies. In recognition of this work, I was appointed Director of the WHO Collaborating Centre, USA-478.

 

Despite these achievements, I was disheartened to learn during a meeting in Geneva that the WHO, following the lead of the United Nations, excludes native tribes from its outreach and support initiatives. This policy excludes over 5,000 indigenous tribes worldwide, preventing critical healthcare information and resources from reaching some of the most vulnerable populations in North America—Native American communities.

 

Project Objectives

This project seeks to bridge that gap. Through the Rehab in Review Journal (also known as Bones and Brain in Review), which has been formally recognized and distributed by the WHO and numerous international medical societies, we will deliver both hard copy and digital versions of essential health information to Native American physicians nationwide. This journal, distributed monthly, will cover the latest medical research and best practices, enabling physicians to provide better care and explore alternative healthcare options for their patients.

 

In addition to providing these physicians with free access to the journal for one year, we will also offer 36 hours of CME credits, completely free of charge. Each monthly journal will include a test to ensure that physicians have absorbed the information. Upon passing the test, they will receive 3 CME hours. By the end of the year, physicians can complete the full 36 CME hours, helping them maintain their medical licenses and stay informed about the latest advancements in healthcare.

 

Project Impact

The ultimate goal of this project is to empower Native American healthcare providers by equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the critical health challenges faced by their communities. Our aim is not only to disseminate knowledge but to actively track and evaluate the impact of our efforts through health data analysis, ensuring that we are making a tangible difference in the lives of Native American patients. Conclusion This initiative represents a critical step toward reducing healthcare disparities in North America, providing much-needed support to Native American physicians, and improving healthcare outcomes for Indigenous populations.