Lay summary
The World Health Organisation recognises the value of integrating traditional medicine, like Māori healing (Rongoā Māori), into Western healthcare systems. However, in New Zealand, Rongoā Māori and mainstream healthcare often function independently, limiting potential benefits of their collaboration. There is concern that such integration could risk cultural misappropriation, and a level of distrust exists between both sets of practitioners. The potential for improved health outcomes, especially for Māori individuals who currently show lower rates of participation and satisfaction in mainstream healthcare, suggests a need for improved understanding and collaboration.
This study aims to foster mutual respect and collaboration between Rongoā Māori and Western medicine by exploring the perspectives of both sets of practitioners. Using semi-structured interviews, the study will seek to understand what each group believes the other should know about their respective practices. The insights will potentially enhance health outcomes for the Māori community.