Lay summary
We propose implementing innovative Point of Care testing (PoCT) within community designed clinical care pathways with Māori health providers to improve access, diagnosis, treatment and acceptability of care for whānau. This project builds on our team’s expertise with PoCT for Human Papillomavirus screening and community involvement from previous mahi. We seek to address additional significant health issues for whānau Māori, including avoidable and preventable admissions (e.g. Impetigo, Serious Skin Infections, Strep Throat) implementing PoCT near to where whānau live. This project utilises a mixed-method Kaupapa Māori methodology to implement and inform the PoCT clinical care pathways offered and determine the feasibility and acceptability of PoCT informed and delivered by Māori health providers. We ask does the implementation of near-to-whānau testing, improve access to timely diagnostic and treatment services for Māori communities?