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. 2019 Feb 22;3(Suppl 2):32-38.
doi: 10.1093/cdn/nzz001. eCollection 2019 Aug.

Pilinahā: An Indigenous Framework for Health

Affiliations

Pilinahā: An Indigenous Framework for Health

Sharon Kaʻiulani Odom et al. Curr Dev Nutr. .

Abstract

This article speaks to the abundance and wisdom of indigenous community members in Kalihi, an urban neighborhood in Honolulu, Hawaii. Its findings result from community members sharing their stories of health, health care, and healing. These stories evolved into a distinct framework for health-Pilinahā or the Four Connections Framework. Pilinahā addresses 4 vital connections that people typically seek to feel whole and healthy in their lives: connections to place, community, past and future, and one's better self. This article describes the origins, intent, key concepts, and implementation of this framework. By doing so, the authors hope to add to the growing body of work on community and indigenous well-being, further the dialogue with other indigenous communities, and collectively foster a more meaningful and effective health system for all.

Keywords: Native Hawaiian; community health; framework; health equity; indigenous health.

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Figures

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FIGURE 1
Pilinahā: The Four Connections Framework — An indigenous perspective to health and healing.

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