Health Care Provider’s Role in Obesity Prevention and Healthy Development of Young American Indian Children

Abstract

Introduction: Health care providers (HCPs) serving American Indian (AI) populations are critical stakeholders in promoting healthy weight-related behaviors of young AI children. The purpose of this study is to develop an understanding of how HCP perceive their role in the healthy development of young AI children, and how they envision working with early care and education teachers and parents to enhance children’s health. Method: Twenty HCP that serve young AI children in Oklahoma participated in individual interviews. Thematic analysis was conducted on coded transcripts and three main themes, each with two to four subthemes were identified. Results: HCP had limited contact with teachers, felt family health was equal or more important than child health, and parental empowerment and gradual change was essential for success. Conclusion: Creating ways to involve HCP, early care and education teachers, and parents together in multilevel and multisector interventions has the potential to improve the health of young AI children.