Circle of Healing: Incorporating the Principles of the Medicine Wheel into Medical Forensic Exams

Circle of Healing: Incorporating the Principles of the Medicine Wheel into Medical Forensic Exams

Presenters: Kelsey Morris and Chenel Vanden Berk

The Medicine Wheel has been utilized by various Native American Tribes and Nations for health and healing. The Medicine Wheel acts as a constant reminder for those who use it, that all dimensions of a person’s being must have balance. When imbalance occurs within a dimension, balance must be restored. Experiencing Intimate partner violence (IPV) and/or sexual violence disrupts a sense of stability in the lifecycle. The medical forensic exam is one way to restore balance and promote healing through patient centered, trauma informed medical care. Since the medical forensic exam is patient driven, it can be tailored to recognize the benefits of incorporating culturally significant traditions such as the Medicine Wheel when providing care to patients that have experienced IPV and/or sexual violence in Tribal and Native communities.