INDG2001 Health and Indigenous Australian Peoples

Introduction

The health and wellbeing of Indigenous Australians, particularly Aboriginal peoples, are intricately intertwined with a comprehensive understanding of their cultural, spiritual, and social frameworks (Dudgeon et al., 2022). This paper delves into the multifaceted dimensions of health as defined by Aboriginal peoples, while also exploring the impact of institutional and systemic racism on access to culturally safe healthcare, particularly within the context of nursing practice. Furthermore, it will reflect upon the learned points throughout this unit, shedding light on the ways in which one, as a nurse one can navigate these complex dynamics to provide care that is sensitive, inclusive, and effective for Indigenous populations.

Health and wellbeing as defined by Aboriginal people

Aboriginal peoples in Australia possess a profound and holistic understanding of health and wellbeing that is deeply rooted in their cultural, spiritual, and social frameworks (AIHW, 2022). One pivotal concept is the notion of "Holistic Health," which posits that an individual's physical, mental, and spiritual well-being are intricately interdependent. According to Garvey et al. (2021) this interconnectedness implies that disruptions in one aspect can reverberate across others, underscoring the imperative of maintaining equilibrium in all dimensions. Moreover, the concept of "Country" constitutes a fundamental element in Aboriginal understandings of health and wellbeing (Verbunt et al., 2021). It embraces the territory, its natural resources, and the supernatural beings that live there. Aboriginal people believe that their own vitality and the health of their country are inextricably linked. Individuals and their ancestral lands have a symbiotic relationship that serves as a source of sustenance, identity, and spiritual nourishment (Karanja, 2019). It is believed that maintaining holistic health requires the preservation and peaceful coexistence with Country. This viewpoint not only emphasises the profound respect that Aboriginal peoples have for their environments, but it also emphasises how mutually dependent their relationship with nature is (Karanja, 2019).

As the foundation of Aboriginal culture, spirituality is crucial to how they view health and happiness. The Dreaming embodies the idea that everything in the world was created and is connected through ancestral beings and their journeys, and is frequently regarded as the spiritual and philosophical foundation of Aboriginal existence (Robinson & Raven, 2019). The physical and metaphysical worlds are entwined by this idea, which transcends the distinctions between the past, present, and future in time. Aboriginal people receive a sense of identity, belonging, and purpose through their dreaming, which supports their overall well-being (Andersen, 2019). Rituals, ceremonies, and storytelling all play a crucial role in preserving this spiritual balance and preserving the cultural practices that support both individual and group wellbeing. Aboriginal health and wellbeing depend critically on social cohesion and community. The complex web of familial and social ties that unite people is described by the term "kinship." (Beaufils, 2022). These connections go beyond simple biological affinity and include a web of obligations, reciprocity, and mutual aid. These ties must be strong because they give people a sense of identity, emotional support, and a sense of belonging. As a result of the understanding that an individual's health is inextricably linked to the health of the community as a whole, collective well-being is given priority in Aboriginal communities (Beaufils, 2022) This communal viewpoint encourages mutual care and shared responsibility while promoting a collaborative approach to health and wellbeing.

For Aboriginal peoples, cultural identity and self-determination are additional important factors in determining their health and wellbeing (Verbunt et al., 2021). Cultural identity includes a strong sense of connection to one's history, traditions, and language as well as a sense of belonging. It is fundamental to Indigenous people's sense of self and makes a significant contribution to their general wellbeing (Shepherd et al., 2017). The maintenance of this equilibrium depends on the preservation and celebration of cultural practices, such as rituals, ceremonies, and storytelling.

Impact of Institutional and Systemic Racism on Access to Culturally Safe Healthcare

Institutional and systemic racism within the healthcare system has a profound and detrimental impact on the access to culturally safe healthcare for Indigenous populations, including Aboriginal peoples. The policies, practices, and attitudes of healthcare institutions are permeated with this pervasive form of racism, which prevents marginalised communities from having equitable access to high-quality care (Wylie & McConkey, 2018). The persistence of cultural insensitivity and a lack of understanding among healthcare professionals is a significant result of institutional and systemic racism. These elements help create a setting in which Aboriginal people might feel excluded, misunderstood, and ultimately hesitant to seek out or trust healthcare services. The ongoing health disparities that Aboriginal peoples face, such as higher rates of chronic diseases, shorter life expectancies, and insufficient access to crucial healthcare service (Nolan-Isles et al., 2021). These differences are largely a result of historical and ongoing systemic injustices rather than being solely due to biological or genetic factors. Within Aboriginal communities, discriminatory practices like historically implemented segregated healthcare facilities have left a legacy of mistrust and fear. As a result, many people might put off seeking care or forgo it altogether, or seek early discharges aggravating illnesses and producing worse health outcomes (Askew et al., 2021). Additionally, the absence of healthcare that is culturally appropriate perpetuates intergenerational trauma cycles in Aboriginal communities.Indigenous people's mental and emotional health have been permanently harmed by historical traumas like the separation of children from their families. Culturally insensitive behaviours can make people feel even more isolated and helpless while fostering a hostile environment that hinders the healing process ‌(Fast & Collin-Vézina, 2019).

To avoid unintentionally supporting or perpetuating institutional and systemic racism, as a nurse, one must critically examine their practise. This calls for a firm commitment to lifelong learning and development in the areas of cultural competence, humility, and sensitivity (Zghal et al., 2020). They must admit that their own prejudices and presumptions might unintentionally affect the care they give. They can work to provide care that is not only respectful and inclusive but also affirming of their patients' identities by actively attempting to understand the diverse cultural backgrounds and experiences of their patients. Furthermore, developing a rapport and feeling of trust with Aboriginal patients comes first. This necessitates a sincere demonstration of empathy, active listening, and a genuine desire to learn from their patients' varied experiences and viewpoints (Decady Guijarro & Bourgeault, 2023). For institutional and systemic racism to be defeated, it is essential to establish a safe and welcoming environment where people feel truly heard and valued. Furthermore, it is a serious responsibility to push for systemic changes in the healthcare system. This includes the need to oppose discriminatory laws, promote culturally sensitive training for all medical staff members, and push for laws that give Aboriginal communities' unique needs and voices top priority (UNHCHR, 2023). Working closely with Indigenous organisations and community leaders is extremely beneficial as it offers crucial insights and direction in our shared effort to create a healthcare environment that is more inclusive and culturally sensitive.

Reflection

As a nurse, I've gained critical insights into culturally appropriate procedures when providing healthcare for Indigenous populations throughout this unit. One foundational learning that resonates deeply with me is the recognition of the value of cultural humility and competence (Chávez, 2022). It's imperative for me to understand that cultural knowledge is not static; it's dynamic and deeply rooted in specific contexts. Actively engaging with Indigenous communities and continually seeking to expand my own education is essential. Moreover, I've come to acknowledge the profound and enduring impact of historical and ongoing systemic injustices on the health status of Indigenous Australians (AHRC, 2018). Recognizing the significance of elements like forced relocations, dispossession, and discriminatory policies in shaping the existing health disparities is sobering.In my practice, I have also internalised the importance of cultural safety in healthcare provision. Building trust, fostering open communication, and delivering care that aligns with the individual's cultural beliefs and preferences are the bedrock of culturally safe care (Curtis et al., 2019). I must also establish a welcoming environment where Indigenous patients feel free to express their worries and actively take part in making their own healthcare decisions.

For me, learning about the fundamental significance of family and community in Indigenous cultures has been a life-changing experience where interpersonal ties within families and communities must be acknowledged and respected. This is a network of responsibilities, reciprocity, and mutual support that extends beyond biological ties. As a nurse, I am aware of the profound importance of comprehending how kinship networks and ties to the community affect Indigenous peoples' health outcomes (Beaufils, 2022).. It is crucial for me to develop working relationships with patients' families and communities, actively involving them in decisions about their care. I recognise the importance of developing a nuanced understanding of the complex socioeconomic factors that affect Indigenous Australians' health status in addition to cultural considerations. The importance of education as a socioeconomic determinant is evident. Lower educational attainment levels within Indigenous communities have been linked to poorer health outcomes (Hicks et al., 2023). Recognizing the potential effects of low educational levels allows me to develop tailored health education and communication strategies. This may entail utilising visual aids, employing simplified language, and providing resources in various formats or digital technology to ensure comprehension and empower patients to actively engage in their care (Li et al., 2021) .

Higher rates of unemployment and underemployment within Indigenous populations can lead to financial strain, limited access to healthcare resources, and heightened levels of stress (Grace, 2022). By providing information on available resources and support services, I can play a pivotal role in alleviating some of the financial pressures that could otherwise negatively impact health outcomes. Housing conditions represent another critical socioeconomic factor influencing the health of Indigenous Australians (AHRC, 2018). Many Indigenous communities grapple with challenges such as overcrowding and substandard housing, which can give rise to a range of health issues, including respiratory infections, skin conditions, and mental health challenges. As a front-line healthcare provider, I must identify and address the effects of housing conditions on individuals' health. This might entail educating individuals about sound hygiene practices, advocating for improved housing infrastructure, and collaborating with local resources to rectify housing-related issues.Access to healthcare services emerges as a paramount socioeconomic factor with a substantial impact on health outcomes (Dawson et al., 2022). For many Indigenous communities, particularly those in remote and rural areas, there are barriers to accessing timely and culturally appropriate healthcare. Limited availability of healthcare facilities, transportation challenges, and cultural barriers can all contribute to delayed or deferred care (Dawson et al., 2022) By advocating for increased healthcare resources in underserved areas, engaging in outreach initiatives, and ensuring that care is delivered in a culturally sensitive manner, I can help bridge this gap.

Conclusion

It is crucial to comprehend the complex interactions between socioeconomic determinants and Indigenous health in order to deliver efficient and culturally appropriate care. Nurses are essential in addressing these issues so that Indigenous Australians' health outcomes can be improved. Key actions in reducing the disparities caused by these determinants include advocating for policy changes, interacting with communities, and educating people about the resources that are available. Through these initiatives, nurses work to improve the health and wellbeing of Indigenous communities while also promoting a more equitable healthcare system.

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