The Department of Native Hawaiian Health and its Chair, Dr. Marjorie Mau, is proud to present their strategic plan for the years 2004-2009. Beginning as an initiative, the former task-force and program is now a clinical department, recognized by the University Board of Regents, resides in the John A. Burns School of Medicine (JABSOM) within the University of Hawai`i at Mānoa. Initial funding from the Queen`s Health System enabled the formation of a clinical department within the JABSOM.

The Department of Native Hawaiian Health (DNHH) is unlike other clinical departments in that ongoing community involvement is an integral part in guiding us towards our vision and mission. Partnerships with health organizations allow us to become a part of a team working towards improving the health of Native Hawaiians. In a sense, the Department would not be able to accomplish everything as a stand alone entity. We realize that improving Native Hawaiian Health lies in a kākou (group inclusive) effort.

Although new, the Department of Native Hawaiian Health has incorporated two significant programs that have been well established in JABSOM over the years. The Imi Ho`ola Post-Baccalaureate Program and the Native Hawaiian Center of Excellence have similar missions with respect to Native Hawaiian health and are now a part of the Department. Many discussions with Department members and community members resulted in targeting five core areas where we will focus our efforts:

1) Medical Education (pre-clinical)

2) Research and Evaluation Core

3) Clinical Teaching and Patient Care Services Core

4) Community Relations Core

5) Health Administration and Management Core

With a sound internal organization and a commitment towards a community voice, the DNHH is committed to serve Native Hawaiian peoples and their communities and strives to function and embrace Native Hawaiian values and practices.