In response to the diabetes epidemic among American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) people

Congress established the Special Diabetes Program for Indians (SDPI) in 1997 to provide funds for diabetes prevention and treatment services. This $150 million annual grant program, coordinated by the Indian Health Service (IHS), allows AI/AN communities to provide much needed diabetes prevention programs and increase access to quality diabetes care. This collaboration between IHS and over 300 tribal, IHS, and urban programs across 35 states has helped make possible a remarkable 54% reduction in end-stage renal disease incidence and has similarly cut the incidence of diabetic eye disease by at least half in AI/AN people. The Chickasaw Nation Diabetes Program in Oklahoma is one such program that has utilized SDPI resources to build a successful integrated care model which incorporates a focus on social determinants of health to improve health outcomes and create a healthier community. Through a commitment to provide excellent diabetes care and prevention services, and honoring diverse cultural perspectives, IHS and SDPI grantees are changing the course of diabetes for AI/AN people.