Aboriginal Health Innovation Initiative Project – Exploring pathways to specialist outpatient clinics for First Nations people in the Grampians region.

Abstract

Background/aim: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities continue to face systemic barriers in accessing culturally safe healthcare, as evidenced by higher rates of non-attendance at specialist outpatient clinics and poorer health outcomes compared to non-Indigenous populations. This project aimed to improve access to specialist and allied health services through a co-designed approach to work collaboratively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and the Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) in the region. Population/setting: The Grampians Region Health Service Partnership (GRHSP) includes eight health services. Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people over 18 years and able to consent were included. Methods: Community consultation days, consumer surveys, and stakeholder engagement were central to the project’s methodology. The Lowitja Cultural Safety Audit for Organisations was conducted across the eight health services. Health services were asked to gather evidence in each of the focus areas covered by the tool, including Leadership, Governance, Engagement, Environment, Workforce, Workforce Development, Policy, and Performance Management. Results/findings: Upon completion of the final project report seven of the eight health services had completed the audit, with the eighth service unable to complete in time for reporting. Key findings revealed that cultural safety remains underdeveloped across the region’s health services, with most organisations scoring at a minimal or developing level in a cultural safety audit. Barriers to care included racism, poor communication, logistical challenges, and a lack of culturally appropriate support. Conclusion: The Aboriginal Health Innovation Initiative project for the GRHSP has laid a strong foundation for improving cultural safety and healthcare access for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across the region’s health services. Through meaningful engagement, co-design, and targeted interventions, the project has highlighted both the challenges and opportunities in creating a more inclusive and responsive health system. Translational impact/implications for future practice: This project has paved the way for meaningful engagement and co-design between Health Services and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in the Grampians Region. This project has provided a model for meaningful engagement and built relationships with Aboriginal communities. Translation into practice of promotion of the Aboriginal Health Liaison Officer role, cultural awareness training and auditing are key outcomes. The recommendations will inform the next GH Reconciliation Action Plan.