Perceptions of Pasifika caregivers on a Pacific community playgroup and implications for paediatric physiotherapists

Abstract

Inadequate cultural consideration in healthcare access and provision is one factor that contributes to health inequities for Pasifika in Aotearoa New Zealand. Creating a culturally responsive environment for Pasifika is a key consideration for physiotherapists as required by the Physiotherapy Board of New Zealand cultural competence standards. Cultural community groups, supported by healthcare professionals, may foster the relationship between health providers and Pasifika by creating safe, mana enhancing accessible/alternative health spaces. However, there is limited evidence exploring Pasifika’s perceptions of what is culturally important in healthcare supported community groups in Aotearoa New Zealand. Semi-structured interviews using Talanoa dialogue were conducted in a health professional supported Pacific community playgroup in the Otago region, Aotearoa New Zealand, and data were analysed using a General Inductive Approach. One overarching theme of a ‘sense of belonging’ and of feeling connected to the Pasifika culture was determined. The community playgroup provides a safe environment where members of the Pacific Trust Otago can come together in a culturally meaningful way. Talanoa communication facilitates collaboration and co-design of a culturally responsive community group and is made possible through built relationships. This information may be used to foster the co-design of other healthcare supported community environments, strengthening trust and communication between Pasifika and healthcare providers.