Seeing Our Native Patients: A Case-based Learning Module on Intergenerational Trauma in American Indian/Alaska Native People

Date of Review: January, 2026

This resource introduces clinically active medical students to the impact of intergenerational trauma on American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) patient health. Although originally developed for medical students, the curriculum is appropriate for any healthcare professional caring for AI/AN patients. It can be delivered in person or virtually as a 60-90-minute workshop. The session includes a didactic presentation, a case-based learning module featuring a patient video encounter, and guided self-reflection exercises, along with pre- and post-session surveys to assess changes in learner knowledge. Strengths of this resource: 1. Developed by experts in AI/AN health and research, with consultation from the Native nonprofit Redbud Resource Group, lending both academic and community credibility. 2. The curriculum is highly structured. While it is ideally facilitated by someone with an understanding of AI/AN communities, the detailed guides and materials allow non-AI/AN facilitators or those with limited prior expertise to lead the session effectively if the curriculum is followed closely. 3. The materials are well-designed and thoughtfully integrated, combining didactic content, case-based learning, patient video encounter, and guided reflection to support engagement and knowledge retention. — Jessica Colin Escobar, MD, NCEAS

Corresponding Author’s Email:

wils2669@umn.edu

Institution:

University of Minnesota Medical School

Where was the Curriculum Implemented:

Minneapolis, MN

Outcomes that Have Been Reported for the Curriculum:

Self-reported learner knowledge

Measured in learner knowledge

Outcome and Study Design:

Pre/Post

Level of Learner Assessment

Knowledge Acquisition (MCQ, IRAT, GRAT)