Integrating traditional healing — a success story from Hawaii

UnitedHealthcare Community Plan recognizes cultural healing practices

Cultural barriers can negatively affect patient health outcomes. Integrating traditional cultural practices into treatment plans often improves outcomes and patient engagement. In celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage month, we recognize the importance of these cultural practices in health care.

How adding Pacific Islander healing practices helped improve patient outcomes

UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Hawaii and Waimānalo Health Center offer traditional healing practices as a value-added benefit, combining them with primary care.

When a member schedules an appointment with a primary care physician (PCP), Waimānalo Health Center asks if they want to include Native Healing modalities in their care plan. If they agree, the initial appointment includes both the PCP and the native healer, who together create a care plan. The PCP stays informed about the member’s native healing and meets with the healer regularly to help ensure the plan is effective.

Due to positive results, this program is now a permanent benefit for Community Plan of Hawaii members.

How you can help 

• Watch the video on integrating traditional Hawaiian healing with primary care to understand its importance and effect
• View the UnitedHealthcare Community Plan insights to explore topics that can help improve patient health outcomes in your state