Lay summary
There is some evidence for Maori having increased prevalence and worse outcomes following diagnosis a psychotic disorder. However, little is known about the factors contributing to these inequities or strategies to reduce them. This project aims to utilise routinely collected national data to identify detailed patterns of health and social service use preceding a diagnosis of first episode psychosis for Maori as well as investigating post diagnosis clinical and social pathways that lead to inequities. Qualitative investigation and focus groups with healthcare and social service providers will discuss these pathways to first episode psychosis to identify existing service responses and opportunities for further improvement. Patterns of service use will be used to develop recommendations for best practice for Maori with first episode psychosis and generate strategies for change to address areas of unmet need.