Home > Review Articles > ‘It’s whanaungatanga and all that kind of stuff’: Maori cancer patients’ experiences of health services

‘It’s whanaungatanga and all that kind of stuff’: Maori cancer patients’ experiences of health services

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Authors:
Summary:

This research examined the experience of cancer screening, diagnosis, treatment, survival and palliative care of 12 Māori patients and their whanau through semi-structured interviews to identify factors that facilitate or inhibit use of cancer care services. Key areas identified include the experience of support, continuity of care and the impact of financial and geographic constraints. In conjunction with interpersonal rapport, a more positive experience was facilitated by a long-term relationship with a primary health provider, suggesting that those with a ‘medical home’ are more satisfied with their care and report fewer service coordination problems.

Comment:
The experience of whanau with cancer has received little attention, despite the higher cancer rates, and ongoing calls to improve cancer care pathways for Māori. Māori health and primary care providers alike will hopefully use the information gained here to develop appropriate services.
Reference: J Prim Health Care 2013;5(4):308-14
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.

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