Cultural Immersion Isn't About Diabetes: Understanding the Lakota Sioux Culture on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.

This article discusses the historical trauma and modern struggles of Oglala Lakota Sioux tribal members on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in southwestern South Dakota. In order for healthcare providers to understand why patients from this region have soaring rates of diabetes, teen pregnancies and premature death, it is important to have exposure to their culture and daily life. As part of their medical school curriculum, students at the Sanford School of Medicine take part in cultural immersion trips in order to better understand and relate to the people on the Pine Ridge Reservation. These experiences are led by local Lakota people and allow students to be exposed to the modern healthcare and government facilities, and also take part in traditional ceremonies such as drumming circles and art shows. By the end of the journey, future physicians leave with a better understanding of day-to-day Lakota life and increased empathy and understanding for their Native American counterparts.

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