Abstract

Background: Indigenous populations globally face challenges in medical care. The socioeconomic and cultural determinants that this demographic faces include systemic discrimination, geographic isolation, and poverty, amplifying disparities in healthcare access and outcomes, contributing to cycles of disability and a diminished quality of life for patients. This review examines the socioeconomic and cultural barriers to musculoskeletal healthcare among Indigenous populations, evaluates the common disparities in musculoskeletal healthcare outcomes, and identifies actionable strategies to address these inequities.

Methods: A systematic search using PubMed was conducted using predefined terms related to Indigenous populations, musculoskeletal healthcare, and socioeconomic factors. The inclusion criteria focused on studies from the previous 20 years involving Indigenous adults undergoing or seeking orthopedic treatment. Data extraction and quality assessment followed PRISMA guidelines to explore disparities in healthcare access and outcomes.

Results: Of the 148 articles, 15 articles met the inclusion criteria. Key findings highlighted the systemic barriers for Indigenous populations such as geographic isolation, economic challenges, and a lack of cultural understanding between healthcare providers and Indigenous patients. Disparities in postoperative outcomes, recovery rates, and complication rates were evident. Gaps in culturally competent care and healthcare infrastructure were identified, with more common trends in rural and remote areas.

Conclusions: Indigenous populations face continuing healthcare inequities, driven by their socioeconomic and cultural barriers. Addressing these disparities requires systemic reforms, beginning with educational systems and expanding to culturally inclusive care models, with targeted policies to improve access to musculoskeletal care. Future research should prioritize longitudinal studies and equity-focused methodologies to develop sustained solutions for improving healthcare outcomes among Indigenous communities in the United States and other areas of the world. Enhancing cultural competency within healthcare services is recommended to ensure these challenges are addressed.

Keywords: Indigenous populations, healthcare disparities, musculoskeletal health, orthopedic care access, socioeconomic factors, cultural competence

How to Cite:

Tawakkol, A., Srinivas, K., Michael, B. & Tawakkol, S., MD, (2025) “Socioeconomic and Cultural Determinants of Access to Musculoskeletal Healthcare Among Indigenous Populations Worldwide: A Systematic Review”, Arizona Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies 11(1), 53-60.