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Abstract
This article describes the process of developing a qualitative study that is underpinned by a Tiriti о Waitangi informed approach. The rationale, philosophical underpinnings, methodologies, methods and researcher positionality are outlined for a planned qualitative study that aims to explore Maori patients' experiences of hand therapy services in Tamaki Makaurau | Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand. The team for this study is made up of both Pākehā and Maori researchers. The protocol discusses important considerations for Pākehā healthcare professionals completing research with Maori and for designing research that is culturally safe - named here as a korowai of cultural safety.
Keywords: Hand therapy, Maori, pākehā researcher, qualitative study protocol.
There is a growing body of literature reporting Maori1 consumer experiences of healthcare services in Aotearoa New Zealand (Graham & Ma sters-Awa tere, 2020,Jansen et al., 2008; Wepa & Wilson, 2019). However, little is known regarding the experiences of Maori in their encounters with physical rehabilitation services, including hand therapy. Increasing healthcare practitioners understandings of Maori health through research can assist them in contributing to organisations with a focus on Maori health aspirations that are evidence-based (Scott, 2014). We have therefore planned a qualitative study that seeks to inform health professionals about their interactions with Maori patients. This study is being undertaken as a component of the first author's (BS) Master of Health Science studies, that commenced mid2023. The second QC) and third (DW) authors are the Masters supervisors. The primary supervisor (DW) identifies as Maori and will have oversight of the study's cultural safety.
This paper outlines the planned study protocol. This protocol describes elements of the study in detail that would not be suitable for the final study article. The integrity of qualitative research is often called into question due to under reporting of key elements (O'Brien et al., 2014). Explaining underlying theory and making developmental processes and research procedures visible enables readers and peer reviewers to assess the integrity and quality of the planned study's design. Readers can also decipher the study's potential to contribute to the literature and it's applicability to the health field (Amankwaa, 2016; Ancker et al., 2021 ).
Aims
This research aims to:
- explore the experiences of Maori patients engaging with hand therapy services in Tamaki Makaurau...