Access to medical care among American Indian adults with diabetes

The study utilized a secondary database, the 2003 California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) and examined access to medical care among American Indian adults with diabetes. The study sample consisted of 185 American Indian adults who had a diagnosis of diabetes. The data was collected by WESTAT, a statistical research firm through telephone interview using a computer-assisted telephone interviewing method (CATI).; Findings in this study suggested that health care coverage (Medicare and Medi-Cal), gender influence, perception of overall health condition, and age when diabetes was diagnosed are all contributing factors for American Indians with diabetes to access appropriate medical care. The findings of this study can help in the implementation of creating more opportunities to restore the health of Indian communities. There is a great need to learn more about the health challenges and disparities in Indian communities and about the specific tribes being served. This study explored the importance of understanding the many risk factors that affect American Indian adults in accessing prompt medical care in managing their diabetes and acknowledging the limitations of resources available.