The role and potential of community-based cancer care for Māori in Aotearoa/New Zealand
Tania Slater, Anna Matheson, Cheryl Davies, Cheryl Goodyer, Maureen Holdaway, Lis Ellison-Loschmann
This is the first study to show how indigenous health providers contribute to cancer care and prevention in Aotearoa/New Zealand. A nationwide postal survey of Mori health provider organisations found that they deliver a wide range of cancer care programmes. These include cancer prevention services focussed on health promotion, as well as advocacy, information and support. The trust and long term relationships that Mori health providers have within their communities enables them to help people access mainstream cancer services such as screening, hospital care and cancer support services. This focus on supporting families rather than individuals is important throughout the cancer care journey.