OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — A new report shows Oklahoma ranking among the lowest in the nation for health care equity, and The Citizen Pottawatomie Nation says the results aren't shocking. "I have reviewed the report and it is not anything that we didn't already know," said Lauren Bristow, Clinical Informatics and Health Programs Administrator for Citizen Pottawatomie Nation. Camp DaKaNi, Camp CANOE closing after 95 years due to financial struggles The report filed by The Commonwealth Fund details how difficulties with health care impact those who are American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN). When breaking down poverty rates, those uninsured, and the rate of premature deaths, the Citizen Pottawatomie Nation said those all center around one thing. "All of that ultimately ties back to the broader picture of access to care," said Bristow. Details in the 2024 report show in Oklahoma, before the age of 75, there are nearly 700 deaths per 100,000 AIAN adults, along with almost 30% uninsured. "And then on top of that, living in a rural state that also presents challenges in terms of barriers with transportation," said Bristow. Bristow said the Citizen Pottawatomie Nation is working to address these issues and improve access to health care. "Our West clinic specifically has a clinic that's dedicated to specialty care," said Bristow. This means patients don't have to drive as far to get the necessary care. Bristow said their health centers offer a variety of services, which is something she hopes will continue to grow and ultimately bridge the health care gap. "Thankfully, this is something that has become a large topic with the National Institute of Health. They have put out several grant opportunities to try to address the gap, to try to close those health care disparities," said Bristow. Bristow also said it's not an overnight fix and could take time before Oklahomans see a bigger change.