Exploring Alaska Women’s Health Disparities: A Call to Action

Exploring Alaska Women’s Health Disparities: A Call to Action

Alaska is known for its rugged terrain, breathtaking natural beauty, and its unique indigenous cultural heritage. But one thing that is often overlooked is the health disparities that exist among its women. While Alaska consistently ranks high for overall health indicators, it is also a state that has severe health disparities among its residents.

Recent studies have shown that Alaska Native women face disproportionately higher rates of maternal mortality, breast and cervical cancers, and suicide ideation than non-indigenous Alaskans. Many factors are responsible for these disparities, including social determinants of health, lack of access to care, cultural barriers, and historical trauma.

One of the most significant challenges Alaskan women face is the distances they must travel to access reproductive and women’s health care. Many rural areas lack access to obstetricians and gynecologists, and the cost of transportation to urban centers where these services are available is prohibitive. This lack of access to care vastly increases the risk of pregnancy complications, and it is an especially difficult situation for women living in rural areas of the state.

Additionally, cultural barriers also play a large role. Many Alaska Native women come from communities where traditional healing practices are still prevalent, and they may be reluctant to seek out western medical care. Also, indigenous women may face discrimination when seeking out medical care and may have a hard time trusting providers who do not understand their cultural values and practices.

So, what can be done to address these disparities? A multifaceted approach is needed that considers the unique challenges that indigenous women face when seeking healthcare. A combination of improving access to care, culturally competent providers, and community-based interventions must be considered.

One example of a successful program that addresses these disparities is the Southcentral Foundation’s Nuka System of Care. This innovative system of care provides Alaska Native women with comprehensive primary and women’s health care services. The model empowers patients to have more control over their healthcare, with a focus on equitable, patient-centered care. This model has led to improved health outcomes for indigenous Alaskan women across the state.

In conclusion, the health disparities that indigenous Alaskan women face are complex and multifaceted. Addressing these disparities requires a nuanced, culturally competent approach that recognizes the historical trauma that indigenous women have experienced. Improved access to care, culturally competent providers, and community-based interventions are essential for closing the gap in health disparities among indigenous women in Alaska. It is time for a call to action to ensure that all Alaskan women have access to the care they need and deserve.