HIV/AIDS and Native Americans: the health departments' response.
For some time, state health department HIV/AIDS programs have worked with communities of color to address their unmet needs. Because of the need for a holistic approach to the multiple issues impacting these communities, efforts to address HIV/AIDS in Native American communities are often integrated into programs addressing related issues, such as substance abuse, mental health and other STDs. Building upon a recent report from the National Alliance of State and Territorial AIDS Directors (NASTAD), this article will review the numerous challenges state and local health departments face in supporting HIV/AIDS-focused health and human services in Native American communities and how some health departments have worked with Native American communities to respond to these challenges. A series of recommendations and next steps for health departments seeking to improve services in Native American communities will be offered.
Greabell
Lynne
L
National Alliance of State and Territorial AIDS Directors, Washington, DC, 20001, USA.
Cordes
Penelope
P
Klein
Susan J
SJ
D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / Q000628:therapy; D003469:Culture; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007198:Indians, North American; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000628:therapy; D014481:United States; D016549:United States Indian Health Service