Dr. Ina Vandebroek's research is at the intersection of ethnobotany and community health. She has 15 years experience in research and international cooperation projects in Bolivia, the Dominican Republic and New York City. Currently she conducts fieldwork in rural Jamaica. Ina studies the dynamics of medicinal plant knowledge and use for primary healthcare by local communities in remote rural areas, as well as by Latino and Caribbean immigrants in New York City. Her research shows that, even in times of general loss of biological and cultural diversity worldwide, the use of plants as medicines remains popular in many communities today. Her work with immigrants from the Dominican Republic in New York City has important implications for healthcare delivery to an underserved community. Ina uses the results of her research to develop training activities with healthcare providers in New York City to help establish a better dialogue and trusted relationship between providers and their Latino/Caribbean patients, and promote culturally sensitive healthcare for underserved communities.

Science, Science and Technology Professionals, Biologists, Biology