Complete Success for the South Australian Aboriginal Health Research Showcase
SAHMRI hosted the second South Australian Aboriginal Health Research Showcase in early December. The two-day event showcased the achievements in Aboriginal health research over recent years, and provided an opportunity to reflect on the challenges, gaps, and research questions which remain.
The event also marked two years since the signing of the South Australian Aboriginal Health Research Accord. The signing of the Accord was a unique moment in Aboriginal health research, with the three universities and SAHMRI committing to conducting health research in line with nine principles which were developed with the SA Aboriginal community. Amanda Mitchell, Deputy CEO of the Aboriginal Health Council of SA spoke about the achievements to date and the work that the organisation is undertaking. A representative from each of the three universities reflected on the signing of the Accord and the work that they have undertaken since to align with the principles of this agreement. This was followed by senior researchers speaking about their latest programs and projects.
The morning of the second day featured nine presentations by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander researchers across the state. Congratulations go to Elaine Kite for winning the ‘best presentation’ award, with Amanda Mitchell, and Anna Dowling and Derik Lynch receiving highly commended awards. Thanks also go to our judges, particularly Uncle Moogy Sumner and Aunty Janice Rigney, who considered the presentations for their relevance to the community. Afternoon workshops have fostered new discussions, ideas and networks.
We are delighted with the overwhelming support for the event, demonstrated through higher than expected attendance. We regard this event as a huge success and thank you all for attending and contributing to this success.
Top photo: Abstract winners; Derik Lynch, Elaine Kite and Amanda Mitchell
Left photo: Professor Alex Brown opening the Showcase
Right photo: Mr Romlie Mokak, CEO Lowitja Institute presenting on The Lowitja Institute
Best Practice Case Studies
A number of Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) have already taken the opportunity to participate in a case study. The focus to date has been on:
Leadership Model; Miwatj Health Aboriginal Corporation’s
Model of Aged Care; Aboriginal Community Care SA’s
Workforce Initiative; Nunyara Aboriginal Health Service Inc’s
Accreditation Process; Nunkuwarrin Yunti of South Australia’s
Social Determinants of Health Initiative; Port Lincoln Aboriginal Health Service Inc.’s
We are currently inviting ACCHOs that would like to be involved in a case study and share examples of best practice care in:
Service delivery
Sustainable funding
Health promotion
Governance
Workforce
Accreditation
Defining outcomes
Quality improvement
Aged care services
Social determinants of health
Each Case Study Site will be provided with a tailored report, evidence briefs and information brochures that could be used to advocate for and promote their work more broadly. Findings from these case studies will in turn contribute to the development of “A Framework to assist Aboriginal Health Services to develop Best Practice Models of primary healthcare service delivery”.
Research Master Classes
Wardliparingga Aboriginal Research Unit has developed suite of Master Classes for policy makers, managers and practitioners working within the ACCHO sector. One of the primary aims of these Master Classes is to ensure that research contributes to improving healthcare for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The informal two day face-to-face format encourages participants to ask questions specific to their particular needs as well as develop practical skills which can be used within their organisation. All Master Classes are supported by study guides and links to further electronic resources, and are delivered on site.
The following Master Classes are currently available:
• Understanding Research
• Undertaking Research
• Evaluation
In early 2017 we anticipate the launch of a fourth Master Class entitled “Using Existing Evidence to Improve Your Practice”
NEW MASTER CLASS CONTENT ONLINE – What is research?
The first of our short web-based YouTube Master Class clips has now been launched. This 15 minute introduction to research is designed to familiarise Aboriginal Community Controlled staff with research including how it can help to improve practice as well as examine some of the issues that ACCHOs may face when participating in a research project.
If you think your ACCHO may be interested in participating in a case study or one of our Research Master Classes, please email: infocreate@sahmri.com or phone Ms Karen Laverty on 08 8128 4251 to find out more.
We recently enrolled our 75th participant which is a great achievement and our most recent recruiting site to join the trial is the Alice Springs Hospital, NT, with an enthusiastic start of 5 participants enrolled so far. Our plans for 2017 include visits to Port Augusta and Murray Bridge in an effort to further target regional populations and commence recruitment at Flinders Medical Centre to target ‘at risk’ southern metro area populations.
We acknowledge and give our thanks to all participants and stakeholders for their continued support and collaboration, which is vital to the success of the study.
THANK YOU FROM THE AC OMEGA 3 TEAM
In early December Cancer Data and Aboriginal Disparities (CanDAD), community reference group member Kyran Dixon attending the 9th International Conference and 1st Global AYA Cancer Congress in Edinburgh, UK. We would like to acknowledge the Port Adelaide Power for supporting Kyran with this opportunity.
To wrap up a big year and a great year here are some photo's of the Aboriginal Diabetes Team.
Fromeveryonehereat Wardliparinggawe wishyoua wonderful Christmas,safeholidaysand a veryhappyNewYear.
