The value of te reo in primary care

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The influence of indigeneity is widely recognised as a health determinant; however the impact of the utilisation of the indigenous language on health care has not been closely examined. AIM: To explore the Maori language (te reo) as a determinant of health from a Maori patient’s perspective. METHODS: Maori patients were recruited through Maori health networks and the snowballing technique. Thirty participants participated in one of three focus group interviews. A semi-structured interview explored the utilisation of health services, comfortability with service delivery and perceptions of general practice surgeries’ cultural competency. Thematic analysis was utilised to interpret the data. RESULTS: Te reo was recognised as an important cultural competency, noted by participants as contributing to the development of appropriate doctor–patient relationships and their feelings of being valued within a practice. Patient-led use of te reo was identified as most appropriate, an indicator of quality of care. DISCUSSION: The training of primary care staff in te reo should be encouraged. Developed as a competency, this will see primary care settings better able to respond to Maori patients and in turn support Maori health gains. KEYWORDS: Maori health; Maori language; family practice; quality health indicators