Virtual health appointments may remove barriers for Māori

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2022-04-01 00:01

New Zealand

New Zealand's 2020 lockdown meant many healthcare providers moved to online or phone consultations with patients. Researchers interviewing Māori about their experience with the system found virtual appointments removed common barriers such as lack of transport, consultation costs and having to take time off work/school. However they also suggest improvements such as better access to health-monitoring equipment and support for Telehealth literacy. This study used a Kaupapa Māori research methodology, which operates using a Māori world view and takes on Māori ways of knowing, being and doing.

Media release

From: New Zealand Medical Association (NZMA)

This Kaupapa Māori study looked at the experiences of Māori with Telehealth during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown. We interviewed Māori whānau and primary health care providers about accessing healthcare during the lockdown, and whether they had used Telehealth. Participants told us that Telehealth was useful when it removed common barriers – such as lack of transport, consultation costs and having to take time off work/school – and in general improved access to healthcare. However, they also raised issues with Telehealth, and suggested ways to address these. Solutions focused on improved internet coverage, access to suitable Telehealth and health-monitoring equipment and support for Telehealth literacy.

Journal/
conference: New Zealand Medical Journal

Organisation/s: University of Auckland, University of Otago, University of Waikato, Ivy League Ltd: Māori health research consultancy; National Hauora Coalition

Funder: MAS foundation grant

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