This episode focuses on how loss contributes to ongoing health disparities for Native Americans. This conversation examines U.S. Indian Health Policy and the ways in which it has contributed to poor health outcomes for Native Americans through the separation of families through termination policies, the removal of Indian children from their homes and communities by Child Protective Services, to the loss of traditional foods systems, and implementation of commodity food programs. Much of this history informs trust relationships with health care providers and institutions that are supposed to provide care. Dr. Trafzer describes these events as well as the supportive ways in which the healthcare system and tribes work collaboratively to improve their well-being.
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