Decolonizing Health and Restoring Balance: Indigenous-Led Efforts to Improve Health Outcomes Among American Indian and Alaska Native Populations Through Doctoral Nursing Education

Abstract

Background: American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities continue to experience significant health disparities rooted in historical trauma and structural and systemic inequities. Increasing the number of AI/AN nurses, especially those with doctoral degrees, is a culturally grounded strategy to address these disparities and transform health care for Tribal communities. Methods: The Doctoral Education Pathway for American Indian/Alaska Native Nurses (Pathway), an initiative at the University of Minnesota School of Nursing, builds upon the Niganawenimaanaanig: “We Take Care of Them” Indigenous Nursing Education Model to recruit, retain, and graduate AI/AN nurses in Doctor of Nursing Practice and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs. Through intentional partnerships, Indigenous mentorship, financial and academic support, and culturally responsive curriculum, Pathway empowers AI/AN nursing students to thrive in doctoral education and beyond. Results: Early outcomes show increased enrollment, strong community building among students, and strong positive feedback. Yet, challenges remain, particularly in the need to strengthen Indigenous content and cultural safety within the curriculum. Conclusion: This work underscores that when Indigenous students are honored, supported, and centered in their education, they not only succeed—they become confident, empowered leaders for their people and communities.