Māori experiences and perspectives of hospital treatment in the context of acute care.

Abstract

Aim: Through exploring Māori experiences when presenting acutely to hospital, we aimed to identify specific aspects of culturally safe care that we could incorporate into healthcare professionals' training and hospital processes.

Methods: Using Kaupapa Māori approaches, we undertook semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis to collect and analyse data from diverse groups of Māori participants.

Results: We interviewed 17 participants, with 16 follow-up interviews. We found a lack of trust, and perceptions of unequal treatment for Māori. Our participants highlighted the following key needs: the importance of whanaungatanga in building trusting relationships with patients and whānau; creating safe spaces for patients and whānau; improved staff cultural safety; exploring individual patient and whānau needs, avoiding assumptions about cultural requirements or stereotypical characteristics; upholding the mana of all patients with respectful interactions; and empowering Māori as partners in their care.

Conclusion: By sharing their personal experiences, participants have highlighted specific aspects of their interactions with hospital staff and the healthcare system that could and should be improved. These insights can guide our efforts to enhance cultural safety for Māori patients and whānau through targeted staff training and structural changes.