Community readiness: an effective model for tribal engagement in prevention of cardiovascular disease

Significant health disparities exist among culturally diverse minority populations in the United States. The ways in which healthcare providers recognize and respond to this issue is critical. Methods must be effective, culturally appropriate, and engage the community if they are to be utilized, and they also need to be sustainable to make a significant impact. American Indians and Alaska Natives face many unique health disparities and challenges and they confront many barriers when seeking care and treatment. These obstacles make it essential for healthcare professionals to engage the community in the development of culturally appropriate strategies with which to address health issues. This article describes a community-based participatory approach that was executed successfully by the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. By utilizing the Community Readiness Model, it effectively built on the culture and resiliency that exists in each of 10 communities to more successfully implement community-responsive health prevention and treatment. This article discusses the experience of the Choctaw Nation in its assessment and engagement of the community in addressing cardiovascular disease. Data are presented that reflect the successful use of the Community Readiness Model and discussion is provided. This article emphasizes the use of an effective community-based participatory method, Community Readiness, that enabled the Choctaw Nation to make strong "inroads" into its respective service area through successful community engagement.