This is a research study that will lead to a sustainable, culturally tailored, and effective palliative care program for AI cancer patients in Western SD. In Phase 1, we will build upon formative work understanding palliative care needs, barriers, and opportunities in American Indians in this area, palliative care educational programs, and innovations in care delivery and patient engagement to create a culturally appropriate intervention for this population, focusing on two key components prioritized by stakeholders: (1) multidisciplinary provider education and (2) in-home support and care coordination through a palliative care focused community health worker program. In Phase 2, we will evaluate these components using an innovative quasi-experimental, factorial design, examining the combined and independent impact of the interventions on patient and caregiver outcomes, as well as provider knowledge and comfort. All phases of the project will be guided by a community advisory board composed of tribal health leaders and representative enrolled members from the three tribes.
Gina Johnson, Program Manager
Deanna Howe-Swan, Administrative Coordinator
