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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
Healani K. Chang, DrPH, Pacific Biomedical Research Center, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Haumana Biomedical Program, 1993 East-West Road, CSA-002, Honolulu, HI 96822, 808 956-8268, healani@pbrc.hawaii.edu and Walter K. Patrick, MD, PhD, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, 1960 East-West Road, Honolulu, HI 96822.
In recent years, the Hawaiian community has undergone a renewed sense of cultural pride and desire to preserve traditional customs such as the Hawaiian medical practices. The purpose of this study is to characterize the extent to which Hawaiian healing modalities are still in existence. Twenty-five Hawaiian health practitioners on the island of O‘ahu agreed to in-depth interviews on their specific training and current practices of Hawaiian healing. Data collection included demographic characteristics, cultural attributes, training patterns, healing modalities, motivation to practice, spirituality and health, use of Hawaiian medicines, and training haumana (students). Comparisons between practitioners and specialties were explored. Content analyses identified two major components of Hawaiian healing: (1) attributes of Hawaiian culture, and (2) elements of spirituality in health and healing. Three significant modalities remain: ho‘olomilomi, massage; lä‘au lapa‘au, herbal medicine; and ho‘oponopono, conflict resolution. Seventeen or 68% reported being skilled in more than one healing modality and 56% were training haumana. All practitioners reported apprenticeships under one or more master healers or a recognized elder healer—often a family member. Hawaiian values—such as lökahi, harmony between man, nature, and the gods—are essential for holistic health. Without lökahi, there is illness. In summary, this study provides data that previously did not exist on contemporary Hawaiian health practitioners. Public health planners and health care professionals may find this information useful in developing culturally competent health programs for Hawaiian clients.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Indigenous Populations, Access to Health Care
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.