Patient empowerment focuses on patient-centeredness and patient individuality, and is a well-discussed topic in health literature. However, translating the theory into practice is a challenge. A research study by Werbrouck, et al. (2018) was done and it's goal was to assess the effectiveness of interventions on patient empowerment and to identify and compare the process of these interventions.  In their conclusion of the study, the most recurrent behavioral change technique identified in their review was “knowledge”, however, this is not sufficient to be empowered. “Goal setting” and “action planning” were more likely to contribute to successful interventions. “Knowledge” could be combined with “goal setting” and “action planning” to be considered truly empowering. 

Translation. The message of this abstract is that empowerment, especially if we look at
it from the perspective of health, is defined by not only understanding the knowledge but
also using that knowledge and applying it to improve your health and the health of your
community. This is true empowerment – to purposefully become a partner in your community and take
responsibility in learning, sharing, and contributing to address the health disparities
experienced by Native women.  Bass, United is committed to support the empowerment of Native women in maternal and women’s health using the Community-based Participatory Framework (CBPF).

CBPF is a partnership approach to obtain health knowledge that is equitable and involves community
members, practitioners, and academic educators in all aspects by providing their expertise and
sharing responsibility.  Native peoples are linguistically, culturally, and genetically diverse peoples.  Non-native individuals that do not understand or misconstrue the structure of indigenous kinship systems as parallel to non-indigenous is a leading example as to how easily our spiritual responsibilities are misunderstood by these fragmented systems. CBPF is one approach for addressing the distrust of academic research within Tribal communities which in turn, can help to ensure the cultural vitality of future generations. In light of this approach, the development of the Bass, United website will be considered iterative, an everchanging process involving the ongoing participation of Native women from any and all Tribes who wish to be part of the process.

We welcome all feedback during this journey for it is the only path to truly refine and align with the
needs of the women, their families and their communities.  In addition, the information in this document and on the BASS, United website consists of evidence-based research mostly completed within the last 5 years. At the 5-year point, the information will be reviewed and updated. However, if the research is considered “foundational” in other words, knowledge that although, may be beyond 5 years but still influences practice today, then it will remain.  It is important to understand that if we only consider literature that is recent, and value that more highly than if it is robust, then we will be missing important evidence to inform the patients and to guide clinical practice.

Thank you.

The BASS, U team