Home > Review Articles > Medications > “It is through shared conversation, that I understand”— Māori older adults’ experiences of medicines and related services in Aotearoa New Zealand

“It is through shared conversation, that I understand”— Māori older adults’ experiences of medicines and related services in Aotearoa New Zealand

Making Education Easy

From Māori Health Review Issue 86
Authors:
  • Hikaka J, et al.
Summary:

The experiences of kaumātua (Māori older adults) with medicines and related services were explored in a qualitative study using kaupapa Māori theory. Reflexive analysis identified three themes from semi-structured interviews with ten kaumātua from Auckland. Medicines-related experiences were diverse and multi-dimensional with older age having a negative impact on treatment. Medicine supply was perceived as a business transaction devoid of a healthcare relationship. The support of authentic healthcare partnerships was valued for enabling kaumātua to control their medicine-related health.

Comment:
Important to have research that gives voice and mana to the experiences of kaumātua. I found the second theme, regarding medicines as a business transaction, interesting as I can’t imagine rongoā would be considered the same.
Reference: N Z Med J. 2020;133(1516):33-46.
Abstract
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Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.

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