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Mā mahi, ka ora: by work, we prosper – traditional healers and workforce development

Making Education Easy

From Māori Health Review Issue 58
Authors:
  • Ahuriri-Driscoll A et al.
Summary:

Findings are reported from a nationwide survey that was completed in 2013 by 38 rongoā Māori
practitioners/rongoā clinics. Rongoā Māori is a traditional approach to health and wellbeing. This survey
explored rongoā practice and service delivery. Respondents were primarily Māori (88%), female (69%),
≥50 years of age (60%), and worked as volunteers. Healers’ aspirations for professional development and
training emerged as a key focus; 85% of respondents stated that they would like further training. Informal,
culturally-embedded training modes were the most preferred means of skill/knowledge acquisition, focusing
on te reo, mātauranga and tikanga.

Comment:
A fantastic summary of what’s happening, and what more is needed to support the valuable mahi undertaken by our healers.
Reference: N Z Med J. 2015;128(1420):34-44
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.

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