Home > Review Articles > Rheumatic fever > Subcutaneous injections of penicillin (SCIP): convenient and effective treatment for Māori, Pacific peoples and their families in preventing rheumatic heart disease

Subcutaneous injections of penicillin (SCIP): convenient and effective treatment for Māori, Pacific peoples and their families in preventing rheumatic heart disease

Making Education Easy

From Māori Health Review Issue 118
Authors:
  • Cooper J et al.
Summary:

SCIP offers an opportunity to improve adherence to secondary prophylaxis in Māori and Pacific patients with acute rheumatic fever (ARF), according to a recent study, and has the potential to improve health outcomes. SCIP enables injections to be given every 10 weeks as an alternative to the standard 4-weekly intramuscular injections. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with Māori and Pacific patients with ARF who had been receiving SCIP for ≥1 year, and their families (n = 10), between March and August 2024. Key themes associated with SCIP use were: 1) reduced burden of treatment; 2) emotional impact from reduced injection frequency; 3) family-centered care by healthcare providers; 4) relationship building; 5) health literacy; and 6) pain management. Overall, the extended dosing interval provided by SCIP reduced the physical and emotional burden on patients, thereby enhancing quality of life.

Comment:
Reference: PLOS Glob Public Health. 2025;5(10):e0004895.
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.

Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.

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