Understanding experiences of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander patients at the emergency departments in Australia

• Published in: Emergency Medicine Australasia
• Main Authors: Rahman, Muhammad Aziz, Huda, Md Nazmul, Somerville, Emma, Penny, Lauren, Dashwood, Ryan, Bloxsome, Sharon, Warrior, Keith, Pratt, Katie, Lankin, Margaret, Kenny, Kevin, Arabena, Kerry
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: unknown
• Published: John Wiley and Sons Inc 2023
• Subjects: 3202 Clinical sciences; Aboriginal; Australia; Emergency departments; Experience; First Nations People; First Nations
• Online Access: http://researchonline.federation.edu.au/vital/access/HandleResolver/1959.17/197158; https://doi.org/10.1111/1742-6723.14172

Objectives: The present study describes the experiences of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander patients and the factors that shaped their experiences of ED visits in regional settings. Methods: This is a qualitative descriptive study. We conducted semi-structured in-depth interviews with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander patients who used the ED services at three hospitals in New South Wales, Northern Territory and South Australia. We coded the collected data and analysed them using a thematic analysis technique. Results: A total of 33 Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander patients participated. Analyses of their experiences revealed four themes, which included: (i) patients' waiting times in ED; (ii) cultural determinants of health; (iii) treatment services; and (iv) safety, security and privacy. Conclusions: A holistic approach and a robust hospital commitment to address cultural needs while considering overall health, social and emotional wellbeing, will enhance Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander patients' satisfaction for ED visits. © 2023 The Authors. Emergency Medicine Australasia published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Australasian College for Emergency Medicine.