Based upon research in two major cities (Detroit and Houston), this study investigates the multitude of factors (cultural-historical, psychosocial and sociocultural) which influences whether or not an African American seeks health care from a variety of sources. It is intended for health professionals, health administrators, social workers, and the general public who want to know more about African American health beliefs and practices and are, perhaps, attempting to construct intervention strategies for local communities. Contents: Southeastern Michigan; Urban African American Health Care; Cultural Historical Background of Detroit African Americans; Research Methods; Health Expressions: A Quantitative Analysis; Health Care Seeking Patterns: A Qualitative Analysis; Intervention Strategies for Urban African Americans.