Empowering Health Through Community: The Mission of the Southern Indian Health Council
The Southern Indian Health Council (SIHC) is a non-profit organization that serves the Native American communities in San Diego County. Established in 1979, their mission is to provide culturally competent health care and wellness services to improve the overall health and well-being of their community members.
The Power of Community
SIHC’s approach centers around community empowerment. By engaging community members and leveraging their strengths and resources, SIHC is able to provide high-quality health care services tailored to the specific needs of each community.
This approach has proven successful in improving health outcomes for their community members. For example, their diabetes education program has contributed to a 20% decrease in diabetes hospitalizations within the Native American community in San Diego County.
Cultural Competency
Cultural competency is at the heart of SIHC’s mission. They recognize the importance of understanding and respecting the cultural beliefs and practices of their community members in providing effective health care services.
SIHC has a team of highly trained and culturally sensitive health care professionals who are fluent in the Native American languages spoken within their communities. They also incorporate traditional healing practices, such as herbal medicine and ceremony, into their treatment plans when appropriate.
Collaborations and Partnerships
SIHC recognizes that improving health outcomes in their communities requires collaboration and partnerships with other organizations and institutions.
They work closely with tribal governments, universities, hospitals, and other non-profit organizations to ensure their community members have access to a wide range of health care services and resources.
Conclusion
Through their community empowerment approach, cultural competency, and collaborations and partnerships, the Southern Indian Health Council has been able to improve the health and well-being of their Native American communities in San Diego County. Their mission is a testament to the power of community in promoting health and wellness.
