Pilinahā: An Indigenous Framework for Health

Area of Science:

• Community Health
• Indigenous Studies
• Health Systems Research

Background:

• Urban indigenous communities possess unique wisdom regarding health and healing.
• Community-driven narratives are crucial for understanding well-being from an indigenous perspective.
• Existing health frameworks may not fully capture the holistic needs of indigenous populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and describe the "Pilinahā" or Four Connections Framework.
• To highlight the role of indigenous wisdom in developing community-centered health approaches.
• To foster dialogue and collaboration among indigenous communities for health system improvement.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative research involving story-sharing with indigenous community members in Kalihi, Honolulu.
• Development of a health framework based on community-identified needs and values.
• Analysis of narratives to identify key components of indigenous well-being.

Main Results:

• The emergence of the Pilinahā (Four Connections Framework) as a distinct model for health.
• Identification of four core connections: place, community, past and future, and one's better self.
• Demonstration of the framework's potential for fostering wholeness and health.

Conclusions:

• The Pilinahā framework offers a culturally relevant model for indigenous well-being.
• Community-based participatory approaches can lead to innovative health solutions.
• Strengthening connections is vital for creating more effective and meaningful health systems for indigenous peoples.