Tucson VA Hosts 3rd Annual Traditional Way Workshop
By Orlando Ford, Public Affairs Specialist
The Southern Arizona VA Health Care System (SAVAHCS) hosted its 3rd Annual Traditional Way Workshop on Thursday, November 6 at the Tucson VA Medical Center. The training brought SAVAHCS providers and staff together to enhance their understanding of the unique needs of Native American Veterans.
The one-day workshop aimed to increase enrollment of Native American Veterans in VHA Healthcare by fostering awareness of Native American traditions among healthcare providers and staff.
The event featured a diverse lineup of presenters who shared their insights and knowledge of Native American culture and healthcare needs. Ginger Sunbird Martin, from the Gila River Indian Community, has been a major contributor to the workshop for the past three years.
Reflecting on the importance of the workshop, she said, “I feel that by coming together and discussing the importance of including traditional approaches, we created a win-win. Recognizing that our ancient practices are still valid and useful today speaks volumes about our culture's resilience. The medical field paying attention to our traditional healing practices not only validated our existence but also allowed us to sit at the table as equals.”
Dr. Rodrigo Ceballos, SAVAHCS Whole Health Clinical Director emphasized the significance of integrating traditional practices with modern medicine.
"Modern medicine and native medicine can learn from each other," he stated. "The future of medicine is going to be integrative and holistic. It makes sense to seek the wisdom of the traditions that came before us."
Laura Ybarra, RN, DNP, PHN, SAVAHCS Native American Advocate Program Coordinator highlighted the importance of building positive relationships among healthcare providers and the Native American Veteran population and create a healthcare environment that is respectful, and culturally aware.
"The main thing to walk away from the workshop with is developing trust with our Native American Veterans," she said.
This sentiment echoes the overarching goal of the workshop, which is to create a healthcare environment that is inclusive, respectful, and culturally competent.
Workshop organizers acknowledged the generous support from several community partners, including Freeport-McMoRan Sierrita Operations, Tucson Indian Center, Pascua Yaqui Tribe, Tohono O'odham Nation, SAVAHCS Veterans Canteen Service, Phoenix VA Health Care System, and O'Odham Veterans Celebration.
At the conclusion of the one-day workshop, participants left with a renewed commitment to creating a healthcare experience that honors and respects the rich traditions of Native American Veterans. The Traditional Way Workshop organizers plan to continue this important work for years to come.