Work

Improving outcomes from pain management programmes in Aotearoa New Zealand: listening to the voices of Māori

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: There are inequities for Māori (Indigenous peoples of New Zealand) in relation to chronic pain, including a disproportionate prevalence of chronic pain, a greater impact of pain, and reduced long-term benefit from chronic pain services. This likely arises from impacts of colonisation and racism within health services. The study aimed to determine the experience of Māori who had attended a 3-week pain management programme in Aotearoa New Zealand. Six participants were interviewed regarding their experiences of attending the programme, and the data analysed using thematic analysis. Five themes were developed: Lost and alienated, Manaakitanga (kindness, respect, care) created a supportive environment; Education enables mana āhua ake (personal autonomy); Whanaungatanga (relationship) is valued; and Where is the tikanga (Māori protocols)? The programme provided respectful care that facilitated participants to make their own health care choices. However, the lack of tikanga and Māori health views meant the programme was experienced as medical and Western-oriented.

Source: AlterNative An International Journal of Indigenous Peoples

DOI: 10.1177/11771801251334566

Authors: David K Jones, Rebecca M Mowat, Gwyn N Lewis, Catherine M Cook

Institution: Auckland University of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Indigenous Health, Education, and Rights

Subfield: Health

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650