Cultural considerations when providing rehabilitation services to American Indians

American Indians make up a small percentage of the U.S. population but reside in all states and territories and in all major cities. It is critical for rehabilitation psychologists to have an understanding of the unique cultural and ethnic issues associated with service provision to American Indian clientele. Considerations to be taken into account when providing culturally competent care to American Indians include general knowledge about sociopolitical history and current demographics, acculturation and racial identity, important health issues, and beliefs about health and illness. This article provides a brief introduction to facilitate more effective and culturally appropriate rehabilitation and health care to patients of American Indian heritage.