Researchers: Dr Roz Walker (Telethon Institute of Child Health Research)
Funding: Department of Health Office of Aboriginal Health
Project summary: This research is being conducted by the Telethon Institute for Child Health Research (the Institute) in collaboration with the WA Department of Health’s Women’s and Newborns Health Network (WNHN) and the Office of Aboriginal Health. This project explores the communication and decision-making processes surrounding prenatal, neonatal and end of life decisions between Aboriginal families, their communities and health care providers. It aims to develop more effective and culturally appropriate practices and procedures, to improve communication between health care professionals and Aboriginal women and their families in relation to prenatal diagnosis, neonatal intensive care, and end of life decisions. It also aims to develop resources for health care professionals and allied staff to increase their understanding of the cultural issues and complexities faced by Aboriginal families when prenatal, neonatal and end of life decisions are required; as well as identifying culturally appropriate resources to support Aboriginal families to make health care decisions when experiencing the death or dying of an infant/child.
Progress: Completed in 2011