Policy Analysis: Issue of Health Disparities in Alaska Natives and American Indians
Health disparities among Alaska Natives and American Indians (AI/ANs) have been reported since the initial contact that occurred nearly 500 years in the past. Moreover, the disparities are common in every age and across a wide spectrum of various disease categories (Sarche & Spicer, 2008). Accordingly, AI/ANs endure persistent health disparities that include health status decline, barriers to essential health services, and high uninsured rates. The group also experiences a lower status of health in comparison to other Americans (Frizzell, 2016). The disproportionate burden of disease and reduced life expectancy in AI/ANs can be attributed to cultural differences, discrimination in ...
