Transforming access to care through inclusive practice – Bairnsdale Regional Health Service’s “Culture at the Heart”
Cardiovascular disease is a major health concern, particularly within the Aboriginal Community of East Gippsland (Community). Rates of the disease are significantly higher than the state average and low completion rates of traditional cardiac rehabilitation programs have led to a gap in care.
To address these challenges, the Bairnsdale Regional Health Service (BRHS) Aboriginal Health Unit (AHU) and Moogji Aboriginal Council co-designed the “Culture at the Heart” program. This innovative, culturally-immersive 6-week program was established to improve heart health among First Nations people in the region and address their unique needs.
The program aims to raise awareness of heart health, promote social connection and improve health literacy in a respectful, accessible, and relevant context. Delivered on-country, it provides two-way learning between hospital staff and Community.
Covering key elements of cardiac rehabilitation including nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle management, the program incorporates culturally appropriate resources and activities, ensuring that participants could connect the teachings with their daily lives in meaningful ways.
Carolyn Alkemade, Aboriginal Health Unit Care Coordinator shared that a significant program outcome has been increased rates of exercise.
“This [exercise] ranges from incidental activity by being out on country and generally moving around with the group, to follow up consultations with the local exercise physiologist.
“This resulted in participants learning how to use the local gym equipment and being provided with a home exercise program. Some participants joined local exercise groups, and one person purchased an exercise bike and remains motivated and proud of using it,” shared Carolyn.
The program received the ‘Transforming Access to Care Through Inclusive Practice’ award at the 2024 Gippsland Primary Health Awards.
Reflecting on the accolade, Carolyn proudly noted, “This award recognises the terrific team effort of everyone who has contributed to this program over many years. It demonstrates how an innovative approach based on listening to what Community wants and then providing that within the program can be so successful.”
The program’s impact goes beyond health outcomes. It has set a new standard in transforming access to care for First Nations people in East Gippsland and serves a reminder about the power of collaboration between health services, local Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisations (ACCOs), and Community.
Narelle Bragg, Aboriginal Health Unit Team Leader, expressed: “We have worked tirelessly to ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients feel seen, heard, and supported throughout their healthcare journey.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see the positive impact our work has on individuals and the broader community, whether that’s through better health outcomes, increased trust in healthcare services, or empowering people to take control of their health.”
Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with many reporting an increased understanding of their heart health and a greater sense of connection to their culture and Community.
“Many expressed enthusiasm to participate in similar programs in the future, highlighting the success of our efforts in a supportive and engaging atmosphere while addressing important health and cultural topics,” said Narelle.
This program stands as a testament to the power of community-driven healthcare, demonstrating that when care is delivered with cultural respect, understanding, and inclusion, it has the potential to revolutionise the health landscape.
