ORCID Profile
0000-0002-1369-7084
Current Organisation
Curtin University
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Health sciences | Health services and systems | Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health | Public Health and Health Services not elsewhere classified | Public Health and Health Services | Family Care
Carer Health | Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health - Determinants of Health | Health Inequalities |
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 31-07-2009
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 14-03-2011
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 10-07-2017
Abstract: Current interventions to reduce obesity have limited success. This study aimed to determine the characteristics of successful ch ions (non health professional/community leaders) and to assess how these relate to acceptability ratings of an obesity reduction intervention—the Waist Disposal Challenge. A total of 200 peer participants completed questionnaires. Positive ratings of ch ions’ performance were significantly correlated with perceptions of the success and suitability of the Waist Disposal Challenge. The qualitative feedback concurred that the program prompted weight loss and was a positive social experience which resulted in actual behavioral changes. Selecting suitable ch ions is likely to influence the success of such community health programs.
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2011
DOI: 10.1071/AH09835
Abstract: Background. Cancer mortality among Indigenous Australians is higher compared to the non-Indigenous population and attributed to poor access to cancer detection, screening, treatment and support services. A large proportion of Indigenous Australians live in rural and remote areas which makes access to cancer treatment services more challenging. Factors, such as transport, accommodation, poor socio-economic status and cultural appropriateness of services also negatively affect health service access and, in turn, lead to poor cancer outcomes. Design, setting and participants. Qualitative research with 30 in-depth interviews was conducted with Aboriginal people affected by cancer from across WA, using a variety of recruitment approaches. Results. The infrastructure around the whole-of-treatment experience affected the decision-making and experiences of Aboriginal patients, particularly affecting rural residents. Issues raised included transport and accommodation problems, travel and service expenses, displacement from family, concerns about the hospital environment and lack of appropriate support persons. These factors are compounded by a range of disadvantages already experienced by Aboriginal Australians and are vital factors affecting treatment decision-making and access. Conclusion. To improve cancer outcomes for Aboriginal people, logistical, infrastructure and cultural safety issues must be addressed. One way of ensuring this could be by dedicated support to better coordinate cancer diagnostic and treatment services with primary healthcare services. What is known about the topic? Cancer is a major cause of death among Indigenous Australians who are generally diagnosed later with their disease, have poorer continuity of care and lower uptake and completion of cancer treatment. For cancer diagnosis at an equivalent stage of cancer, Aboriginal people have poorer outcomes. What does this paper add? This study documents Aboriginal perspectives on basic infrastructure and logistical problems which impede their accessing hospital-based cancer treatments: transport, accommodation, preparation for the experience of hospital and cancer treatment, service affordability and the certainty of support services. What are the implications for practitioners? There are difficulties for practitioners in addressing the geographic, socioeconomic and cultural differences that Aboriginal people face in accessing cancer treatment. System level changes to ensure cultural safety, social support and better coordination with primary healthcare are essential to improve outcomes of Aboriginal people with cancer.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 26-03-2018
DOI: 10.1111/AJCO.12873
Abstract: The aim of this study was to examine stakeholders' views of how the establishment of the South West Radiation Oncology Service in Bunbury, Western Australia, has affected treatment decision-making, and the extent to which patients are involved in the decision-making process. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were undertaken with 21 service providers involved in the treatment and care of people with cancer, and 17 adults diagnosed with cancer who opted to undergo radiotherapy (RT) treatment at the Service. Data were subject to thematic analysis using the qualitative data analysis software NVivo 10. Patients were overwhelmingly positive about their experiences at the Service, praising the quality of the care provided and noting the convenience associated with receiving treatment locally. Most patients reported feeling involved in decision-making, but tended to rely on and generally adopt advice from medical professionals regarding type and location of treatment. Although service providers in the region had become more aware of the regional RT service and referrals had increased, some patients continued to travel to the metropolitan area for treatment. Reasons identified for this included the need for more specialized RT treatment and the more extensive range of allied health services offered. Increased convenience and a lower financial burden are key reasons why rural cancer patients prefer treatment at a regional RT service rather than travelling to metropolitan centers. These factors highlight the need for ongoing improvement in access to local RT services so that disparities in cancer outcomes between rural and metropolitan patients are reduced.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-11-2015
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 22-06-2016
DOI: 10.1111/HSC.12261
Abstract: Aboriginal Australians are at higher risk of developing certain types of cancer and, once diagnosed, they have poorer outcomes than their non-Aboriginal counterparts. Lower access to cancer screening programmes, deficiencies in treatment and cultural barriers contribute to poor outcomes. Additional logistical factors affecting those living in rural areas compound these barriers. Cancer support groups have positive effects on people affected by cancer however, there is limited evidence on peer-support programmes for Aboriginal cancer patients in Australia. This paper explores the roles played by an Aboriginal women's cancer support network operating in a regional town in Western Australia. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 24 participants including Aboriginal and mainstream healthcare service providers, and network members and clients. Interviews were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were subjected to inductive thematic analysis. Connecting and linking people and services was perceived as the main role of the network. This role had four distinct domains: (i) facilitating access to cancer services (ii) fostering social interaction (iii) providing a culturally safe space and (iv) building relationships with other agencies. Other network roles included providing emotional and practical support, delivering health education and facilitating engagement in cancer screening initiatives. Despite the network's achievements, unresolved tensions around role definition negatively impacted on the working relationship between the network and mainstream service providers, and posed a threat to the network's sustainability. Different perspectives need to be acknowledged and addressed in order to build strong, effective partnerships between service providers and Aboriginal communities. Valuing and honouring the Aboriginal approaches and expertise, and adopting an intercultural approach are suggested as necessary to the way forward.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 21-04-2023
DOI: 10.1111/JOCN.16302
Abstract: To explore the care experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians diagnosed with cirrhosis with a focus on support needed. Cirrhosis disproportionately affects Indigenous Australians, and liver diseases contribute to the mortality gap between Indigenous and other Australian adults. A qualitative study. Using yarning methods, Indigenous patients ( n = 13) and support persons ( n = 3) were interviewed by an Aboriginal researcher during April‐July, 2020. Thematic analysis was used to identify common themes using an inductive approach. Six themes emerged. (1) Experience of diagnosis . This theme included stories of delays in the system, self‐awareness of signs and symptoms and relief of being diagnosed. (2) ‘ Shame , shame , shame ’. Experiences of prejudices and discrimination from health professionals, the lack of understanding of cirrhosis among health professionals, and stories about alcohol cessation and counselling around alcohol cessation. (3) Health literacy . Participants’ understanding of cirrhosis was variable. While the importance of knowledge was recognised, ‘ what works for someone might not work for others’ . Several patients partnered with their support persons and clinicians to bridge the health literacy gap. (4) Sources of support included family and friends, transport facilities, health professionals and peers. (5) Positive and negative aspects of communication and patient consultation were discussed. (6) Psychosocial counselling to ‘look after the caring side’ . The need for more mental health care services was raised. Barriers related to poor health literacy, stigma and lack of practical and emotional support, and issues with communication and patient consultation, may lead to inequitable access to cirrhosis care and treatment for Indigenous Australians. Gaining knowledge of the experiences of Indigenous Australians with cirrhosis is important for providing patient‐centred and culturally appropriate care. Liver specialist nurses have an important role in bridging the health literacy gap and in supporting Indigenous patients and families.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 06-2016
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 12-07-2012
Abstract: This article describes the training and implementation of the Waist Disposal Challenge in service clubs in Western Australia in 2009–2010. Ninety-three Ch ions from 52 clubs were trained to deliver educational presentations to 1100 peers and facilitate a BMI competition among 764 peers. Ch ions reported significant improvements in their knowledge and confidence to motivate their peers to make changes to their diet and physical activity with 82% of participants completing the BMI competition and on average 58% experiencing and sustaining a BMI reduction for 12 months. It is evident that the Ch ions had influenced the uptake and success of the intervention.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-11-2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2009
DOI: 10.1111/J.1753-6405.2009.00355.X
Abstract: Cancer among Indigenous populations in the developed world appears to have increased over past few decades. This article explores issues related to cancer among the Indigenous populations of Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the US and examines variations in the epidemiology, Indigenous peoples' perceptions about cancer and potential effects on care-seeking behaviour. A search of peer-reviewed journal articles, government reports, published and unpublished theses and other grey literature was undertaken using electronic databases and citation snowballing. Both epidemiological and qualitative studies were included. Cancer in Indigenous populations in these four countries is characterised by high incidence and mortality rates for specific cancers and lower survival rates as a result of late diagnosis, lower participation and poorer compliance with treatment. A higher prevalence of many cancer risk factors occurs across these populations. Fear of death, fatalism, payback, shame and other spiritual and cultural issues are reported in the few qualitative studies examining Indigenous beliefs and understanding of cancer which undoubtedly influences participation in cancer screening and treatment. The holistic approach (physical, mental, emotional and spiritual) to healing and well-being, and the concept that in idual, family and community are inseparable underpin Indigenous care-seeking behaviour. Further community-based research is needed to increase understanding of the needs of Indigenous people with cancer, and to guide policy and practice towards more supportive and effective care.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-05-2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.COLEGN.2012.08.001
Abstract: Community-based palliative care services face challenges in meeting the needs of terminally ill clients who live alone without a primary caregiver. Yet, there is a dearth of literature on the perceptions of health service providers (HSPs) regarding the care needs and possible management options to assist this growing group to remain at home. This paper investigated the support needs of people living alone with a terminal illness from a service provider perspective. In depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine HSPs from community based services in three Australian states. Four main themes emerged: care challenges, differences in care provision, appropriate approaches to care and essentials for an effective service such as 24 h care, cost-free provision of personal alarm systems, supported and coordinated housekeeping services, funded respite care and financial care packages. HSPs expressed a respect for the autonomy and independence of the clients, yet felt pressured to ensure that safe and attentive care was possible. HSPs recognised the central importance of maintaining the independence and autonomy of palliative care clients living alone. This study is the first in-depth account of what HSPs perceive they need to effectively look after home alone dying clients. The study provided directions to inform service planning for this growing and challenging population group regarding adequate and timely services that will lead to more complying with the clients' wishes, more care being delivered at home, a reduction in hospitalisations, a better quality of life and a capacity to die at home.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2010
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 13-08-2009
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 14-02-2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2016
Abstract: To examine a) the implementation and use of a DVD developed to educate Aboriginal people about bowel cancer and bowel cancer screening and b) broader aspects of Aboriginal participation in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program. Qualitative methods and descriptive approaches were used. Data were collected using face-to-face and telephone interviews and focus group discussions. There were 67 participants, including those involved in the development and distribution of the DVD, health professionals and Aboriginal community members. Although the DVD received a positive reaction from participants, fewer than half the DVDs had been distributed. Furthermore, the small number of DVDs that had been distributed were under-utilised. The weaknesses do not appear to lie with the resource itself but can be attributed partly to poor distribution and promotion. This may have been compounded by the structure of the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program, which limited the engagement of Aboriginal community members and health providers whose focus is largely directed towards more pressing health care issues. Interest in the resource may increase once the Aboriginal component of the screening program is more closely linked with primary care.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 23-07-2013
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 21-03-2013
DOI: 10.1071/HE12904
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-04-2014
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 23-06-2010
Abstract: Little is known about the use of bush medicine and traditional healing among Aboriginal Australians for their treatment of cancer and the meanings attached to it. A qualitative study that explored Aboriginal Australians' perspectives and experiences of cancer and cancer services in Western Australia provided an opportunity to analyse the contemporary meanings attached and use of bush medicine by Aboriginal people with cancer in Western Australia Data collection occurred in Perth, both rural and remote areas and included in idual in-depth interviews, observations and field notes. Of the thirty-seven interviews with Aboriginal cancer patients, family members of people who died from cancer and some Aboriginal health care providers, 11 participants whose responses included substantial mention on the issue of bush medicine and traditional healing were selected for the analysis for this paper. The study findings have shown that as part of their healing some Aboriginal Australians use traditional medicine for treating their cancer. Such healing processes and medicines were preferred by some because it helped reconnect them with their heritage, land, culture and the spirits of their ancestors, bringing peace of mind during their illness. Spiritual beliefs and holistic health approaches and practices play an important role in the treatment choices for some patients. Service providers need to acknowledge and understand the existence of Aboriginal knowledge (epistemology) and accept that traditional healing can be an important addition to an Aboriginal person's healing complementing Western medical treatment regimes. Allowing and supporting traditional approaches to treatment reflects a commitment by modern medical services to adopting an Aboriginal-friendly approach that is not only culturally appropriate but assists with the cultural security of the service.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 08-07-2011
Abstract: This study assessed the feasibility of a telephone lifestyle coaching intervention for middle aged and older men in a service club setting and evaluated its impact on behavioural change in terms of BMI, physical activity, dietary habits, self-reported quality of life and stages of change. Forty participants from Rotary clubs in Western Australia participated in this pilot intervention. Findings showed significant improvements in lifestyle risk modification indicators. Participants were very satisfied with the interaction with their coaches and rated highly the telephone as a medium for coaching. Findings suggested that telephone coaching was a feasible means of delivering a lifestyle intervention in a ‘real-world’ setting for a hard to reach population group.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-07-2015
DOI: 10.1002/PON.3900
Abstract: We aim to systematically review studies that identify factors influencing cancer treatment decision-making among indigenous peoples. Following the outline suggested by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis, a rigorous systematic review and meta-synthesis were conducted of factors that influence cancer treatment decision-making by indigenous peoples. A total of 733 articles were retrieved from eight databases and a manual search. After screening the titles and abstracts, the full text of 26 articles were critically appraised, resulting in five articles that met inclusion criteria for the review. Because the five articles to be reviewed were qualitative studies, the Critical Appraisal Skills Program toolkit was used to evaluate the methodological quality. A thematic synthesis was employed to identify common themes across the studies. Multiple socio-economic and cultural factors were identified that all had the potential to influence cancer treatment decision-making by indigenous people. These factors were distilled into four themes: spiritual beliefs, cultural influences, communication and existing healthcare systems and structures. Although existing research identified multiple factors influencing decision-making, this review identified that quality studies in this domain are scarce. There is scope for further investigation, both into decision-making factors and into the subsequent design of culturally appropriate programmes and services that meet the needs of indigenous peoples.
Start Date: 2018
End Date: 2022
Funder: Australian Research Council
View Funded ActivityStart Date: 02-2018
End Date: 12-2023
Amount: $689,924.00
Summary: Assessing supportive care needs of Indigenous cancer survivors' caregivers. This project aims to gather data about the needs of partners and caregivers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cancer survivors. The project will undertake a comprehensive exploration of the experiences of caregivers and develop a psychometrically tested tool to assist in identifying unmet needs. The project expects to provide new knowledge about the needs of this population and a validated tool to better assess th .... Assessing supportive care needs of Indigenous cancer survivors' caregivers. This project aims to gather data about the needs of partners and caregivers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cancer survivors. The project will undertake a comprehensive exploration of the experiences of caregivers and develop a psychometrically tested tool to assist in identifying unmet needs. The project expects to provide new knowledge about the needs of this population and a validated tool to better assess these needs. The project will result in improvements in the assessment of unmet supportive care needs in caregivers of Indigenous cancer survivors, leading to more timely interventions, and a better quality of life for patients and caregivers. Read more Read less
Funder: Australian Research Council
View Funded Activity