NZ Health System & Te Tiriti o Waitangi Flashcards

Which article of Te Tiriti o Waitangi affirms Māori rangatiratanga (chieftainship) over their lands, villages, and taonga?

Answer: Article 2 (Tino Rangatiratanga)

Article 2 of Te Tiriti guarantees Māori tino rangatiratanga — full chiefly authority — over their lands, estates, forests, fisheries, and other taonga (treasures). In health, this underpins Māori self-determination in health decision-making.

What does the term 'tikanga Māori' mean in the context of healthcare?

Answer: Māori customary values and practices that guide appropriate and respectful behaviour

Tikanga Māori refers to the customary values, protocols, and practices of Māori society. In healthcare, understanding tikanga guides culturally safe interactions, for example around death and dying, tapu/noa, and whānau involvement.

A Māori patient declines a recommended biopsy, saying she needs to discuss it with her whānau first. What is the most appropriate response?

Answer: Acknowledge her need for whānau consultation, provide information, and arrange a follow-up appointment

Whānau decision-making is central to Māori health practice. Facilitating whānau involvement respects tikanga and the patient's autonomy. Refusing to allow discussion before deciding would be culturally unsafe and contrary to the Code of Rights.

Which NZ strategy is specifically designed to address the health disparities experienced by Māori?

Answer: He Korowai Oranga — Māori Health Strategy

He Korowai Oranga is NZ's overarching Māori health strategy, aiming to achieve pae ora (healthy futures) for Māori by addressing the social determinants of health and strengthening the Māori health system.

In NZ, which group of Māori health providers specifically delivers kaupapa Māori health services?

Answer: Māori Providers (Māori health organisations governed by Māori for Māori)

Māori health providers (kaupapa Māori organisations) are governed by and for Māori, delivering services aligned with Māori values. They are a cornerstone of the health system for achieving equity for whānau Māori.

What does the term 'kaiāwhina' refer to in the healthcare context?

Answer: A Māori health worker or support person who assists patients to navigate the health system

Kaiāwhina are Māori health workers who support patients and whānau to navigate health services, provide cultural support, and reduce barriers to care. They play a vital role in improving Māori health outcomes.