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An assessment of Hua Oranga as an outcome tool for Māori with spinal cord injury

Year:
2026
Duration:
24 months
Approved budget:
$108,656.00
Researchers:
Dr Bensy Mathew
,
Associate Professor Matire Harwood
,
Dr Rachelle Martin
Host:
Health New Zealand - Counties Manukau
Proposal type:
Health Delivery Research Development Award
Lay summary
This research study explores a new way to measure Quality of Life (QoL) for Māori people after a spinal cord injury (SCI). Existing QoL measures often miss the specific cultural values and concepts of wellbeing that are important to Māori. This study addresses this gap by testing an existing, culturally appropriate assessment tool developed for Māori called the Hua Oranga. Researchers will meet with participants at different points during their inpatient rehabilitation to see if the Hua Oranga is reliable and accurately captures concepts of wellbeing that are meaningful to them. The main goal is to confirm the Hua Oranga as a trustworthy assessment tool. Using this tool will help healthcare teams provide care that respects Māori perspectives.