Native-led health research center to improve pain, substance use, and mental health

Who could benefit from this research

What this research studies

This project establishes the AST Clinical Research Center within the Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health System to study pain, substance use, and mental health from a Native-led perspective. It creates governance, a tribal research workforce, and a secure data infrastructure that respects Indigenous data sovereignty. A mixed-methods pilot will combine clinical data with community members’ experiences to identify gaps in care and guide improvements at AST clinics. The work aims to prepare the tribe to lead future intervention studies that align with community values and priorities.

Why it matters

Where this research is happening

• Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma
  Shawnee, United States Active

Researchers

• Principal investigator: Miller, Alicia L — Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma
• Study coordinator: Miller, Alicia L

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About this research

1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.