We are proud to announce that NHBP has been awarded the Innovations in Community Health Award by the Michigan Primary Care Association (MPCA). This prestigious award recognizes outstanding individuals, teams, or organizations that have demonstrated creativity, innovation, and a pioneering spirit in improving community health.

For NHBP, this recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and collaboration of our health care team, who have made incredible strides in transforming the way diabetes care is delivered to our Native American community.

Addressing the Diabetes Crisis in Our Community

Diabetes is a major health concern among Native American populations, with higher-than-average rates of the disease and its associated complications, such as kidney failure and blindness. At NHBP, we noticed that the rates of poor health outcomes among our diabetes patients were far too high, and something needed to change.

In response to these challenges, our health care team worked tirelessly to develop a new, more effective approach to diabetes care that would not only reduce these risks but also be culturally appropriate and deeply rooted in the values of our community.

Introducing the Kishtowen Model

In January 2023, we launched the Kishtowen Model of diabetes care. The name Kishtowen is derived from the Bodewadmi word meaning “complete” or “fulfilled,” which embodies the holistic and culturally respectful approach we’ve taken in caring for our patients.

The Kishtowen Model is a team-based, patient-centered, integrated care model designed specifically to meet the needs of our community. The team includes a medical provider, nurse care manager, behavioral health consultant, and a registered dietitian/certified diabetes care education specialist. Together, they provide comprehensive care that is tailored to the unique cultural and healthcare needs of the Native American population we serve.

A Collaborative Approach to Better Health

The Kishtowen Model represents a shift from traditional care to a more collaborative, integrated approach. Rather than treating diabetes in isolation, the model recognizes the importance of addressing the whole person—physically, mentally, and emotionally.

For many Native Americans, the concept of health is not just about the absence of illness but about balance, wellness, and connection to community and culture. The Kishtowen Model honors these values by offering a care plan that is not only scientifically evidence-based but also respectful of the cultural practices and traditions that are important to our patients.

Key Outcomes and Results

The implementation of the Kishtowen Model has led to impressive improvements in the management of diabetes, with several key health metrics showing significant progress. Here’s a look at the data from the first year of the program:

• Diabetic Retinal Screening: 22.7% improvement
• Glucose Control: 14.1% improvement
• Blood Pressure Control: 28.3% improvement
• Screening for Kidney Disease: 22.3% improvement
• Statin Therapy: 47.2% improvement
• Screening for Tuberculosis: 27.0% improvement

These metrics are an important reflection of how the Kishtowen Model is making a real difference in the lives of our patients. Beyond the numbers, however, the positive feedback from our community speaks volumes. Patients have embraced the model, and many have reported feeling more engaged and empowered in managing their diabetes.

Culturally Sensitive and Evidence-Based

The success of the Kishtowen Model lies in its careful balance between cultural sensitivity and evidence-based medical practices. The team utilized the Indian Health Service Special Diabetes Program for Indians (SDPI) Best Practices as a framework while adapting the approach to ensure it resonated with the cultural values and lived experiences of our community members.

Through this careful adaptation, we’ve been able to create a model that not only addresses the clinical needs of our patients but also builds trust, fosters connection, and promotes a sense of pride in their health journey. It is an approach that honors our people’s history, traditions, and the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.

A Bright Future Ahead

Winning the Innovations in Community Health Award is a proud moment for NHBP and serves as validation for the hard work and dedication that has gone into the development and implementation of the Kishtowen Model. But this is just the beginning. As we continue to refine and expand the model, we are committed to improving the health and well-being of all our patients, empowering them to take charge of their health, and helping prevent the complications of diabetes that can be so devastating.

We are incredibly grateful for the recognition and support from the Michigan Primary Care Association. This award is a reflection of the outstanding work of the NHBP Health & Human Services team, and we could not be prouder of their dedication to improving health outcomes for our community. Together, we are building a healthier future, one step at a time.

Final Thoughts

As we look ahead, we are excited to continue developing and expanding the Kishtowen Model to ensure it reaches even more of our community members who are living with diabetes. The work doesn’t stop here, and we are committed to making lasting, positive changes in the lives of those we serve.

We invite you to follow our journey and stay updated on our progress as we continue to innovate and lead in community health.

If you are interested in bringing your diabetes care to NHBP, we would love to work with you. Please call to schedule an appointment at 269.729.4422.