Characteristics of Indigenous primary health care models of service delivery: a systematic scoping review. Issue 4 (December 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Harfield, S.; Davy, C.; McArthur, A.; Munn, Z.; Brown, A.; Brown, N.
• Is Part Of: International journal of evidence-based healthcare. Volume 14:Issue 4(2016:Dec.)
• Page Start: 200
• Publication Date: 2016-12
• Subjects: Nursing -- Periodicals; Midwifery -- Periodicals; Evidence-based medicine -- Periodicals; 616.005
• DOI: 10.1097/01.XEB.0000511345.04823.36
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1744-1595

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Indigenous primary health services have been addressing the gap in life expectancy between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people for some time now. In addition to treating and managing the health of Indigenous peoples, these services often incorporate strength-based approaches to the delivery of care, such as focusing on a holistic definition of health and an acknowledgement of the importance of upholding people's connectedness with families, communities, Country, culture and spirituality. Objective: The objective of the research was to identify the characteristics, value and principles that underpin Indigenous primary healthcare models of service delivery. Methods: We conducted a scoping review of the international literature. Databases were searched for peer-reviewed and grey literature. Four reviewers were involved in the appraising of studies and charting of data. A unique feature of the methods employed was the use of QSR International's NVivo 10 software to thematically analyse the extracted findings, and identify characteristics of Indigenous primary healthcare models of services delivery. Results: The scoping review identified nine overarching characteristics of Indigenous primary health care models of service delivery: accessible health services, appropriate funding and resources, continuous quality improvement, culture, flexible approach to care, self-determination and empowerment, strong community participation, types of services, and workforce. Discussion/Conclusion: Findings from the review will inform the development of a best practice service delivery framework intended to support Aboriginal primary healthcare services to not only evaluate but also advocate for the unique services they provide.