Abstract:

There has been a history of Western treatment modalities, interventions and research that has contributed to a deep distrust of among Native Hawaiians which contributes to health inequities and poor health outcomes. Native Hawaiians experience significantly higher rates of alcohol abuse than other ethnic groups in Hawaii. A paradigm shift is needed in healthcare systems to provide care guided by a cultural safety to improve health equity and achieve sustainable outcomes. Cultural safety is a concept akin to but different from cultural competence. Cultural safety which requires self-reflection and an examination of a one's own culture and an ongoing reflection of personal biases that have the potential to impact clinical interactions that create power imbalances. A transformative change is needed for addressing culturally unique needs, beliefs, values, and ways of knowing and being.