N Z Med J. 2003 Mar; 116(1170): 1p following U353.

Mapping the themes of Maori talk about health.

Cram F, Smith L, Johnstone W.

International Research Institute for Maori and Indigenous Education, University of Auckland, Auckland. f.cram@auckland.ac.nz

AIM: This paper reports the findings of a qualitative research project that investigated: how Maori talk about health; Maori health; and Maori experiences of interacting with both mainstream and Maori providers of healthcare. METHODS: Twenty eight self-identified Maori were recruited from urban, marae-based healthcare services. Rich descriptions of commonly occurring themes were used to examine participants' experiences, explanations and ideas. RESULTS: Twelve themes provide an overview of how Maori health is conceptualised, the importance of 'traditional' concepts, the experiences of Maori within mainstream healthcare, and Maori health promotion mechanisms. CONCLUSIONS: Providing holistic healthcare to Maori in a respectful and collaborative way will provide opportunities for health professionals to have a positive impact on the health of individuals, their whanau and, in turn, their communities, hapu and Iwi.