NT Medical Program
Dr Della YarnoldNT Indigenous Transition Pathways Director
This is me
Overview
• Approach to Indigenous health curriculum• Local context curriculum• Where does health literacy fit?• Integrated approaches• Benefits to patients• Indigenous Entry Stream
The Numbers
Pop. 227,025 (approx. 32.5% Indigenous)1,349,129 square kilometres (520,902 sq mi),
People
The School
Approach to Indigenous Curriculum
• CDAMS Framework• Three key areas• Communication• Applied knowledge• Holistic health
Communication
• Recognition of health literacy issues• Effective listening• Language used• Concepts explained• Resources available
The Ideal
Confusing Messages
Applied Knowledge
• Experiential learning• Team work / Multidisciplinary approaches• Recognition of system issues• Holistic health• Epidemiological knowledge• Local context
Living Stats
Holistic Health
• Not in name only• Practical applications (travel, medications
etc...)• Family, AHW, ALO, DMO, Interpreters• Mind, body, spirit• Traditional practices
Local Context Curriculum
• Cultural Educators (Matthew, Colleen & Bilawara)
• Indigenous reference group• Community placements providing
experiential learning• Service providers• Interpreters, AHW & ALO
Health Literacy Approach
• Not just literacy• Understanding health systems in the
dominant culture• Two way communication• Not appropriate to test for literacy• Must be aware of the potential impact• Mediated by holistic health approaches
Health Literacy Elements
Onus on practitioner to ensure it happensAwareness of literacy, numeracy and the
culture specific interpretation of health information
An interaction which empowers an individualSystem and the culture in which it sits
Health Literacy Awareness
• Newest Vital Sign• Teach Back• Ask Me Three• Health Promotion• Communication skills• Holistic health plans• Awareness of a different worldview
Outcomes
• Appropriate two-way communication of health information - responsive
• Understand & be able to apply the information to decisions made about health
• Options for self empowerment and self management
Integrated Approaches
• Applied knowledge increases awareness• Communication facilitates assessment• Holistic health assists with addressing
health literacy• Skills transferrable to all patients
Benefits to Patients
• Responsive doctors• Improved options for increasing health
knowledge• Self management options increased• Appropriate management plans• Especially relevant to chronic disease
What might stop us?
Barriers
• System• Cultural Awareness/Safety/Competency• Modelling of behaviours• Medical/Health Culture• HALT
Indigenous Entry Stream
• Indigenous doctors • Combining cultural knowledge with clinical
skills• Increased recognition of health literacy
issues, incorporation of traditional healing practices, awareness of holistic health domains
Questions??