In 2020, World Diabetes Day focuses on the promoting the role of nurses in the prevention and management of diabetes. Among the nurses that are playing a critical role in supporting people with diabetes is IHLCDP Associate Dr. Donna Kurtz, an Associate Professor in the School of Nursing at UBCO. Dr. Kurtz is leading research teams to deepen our knowledge of the experiences of Indigenous people living with and managing diabetes. According to Diabetes Canada, Indigenous people experience diabetes rates that are 3-5 times higher than the general population. Using community-based participatory action and Indigenous methodologies, Dr. Kurtz is working with elders, traditional healers, knowledge keepers, health providers and community members to identify solutions. Her goal is to create saleable interventions and services into which local traditional health practices can be integrated to optimize culturally safe diabetes and obesity care for Indigenous people. Dr. Kurtz’s research exemplifies the vital role that nurse researchers play in making a difference for diabetes.
Read more about her research here: Donna Kurtz @ IHLCDP
CIHR – Pathways to better health among Indigenous peoples through collaboration