Improving access and equity in maternity care for Aboriginal women: An in-depth exploration of the Bupup clinic

An evaluation of the Bupup Aboriginal pregnancy clinic (Bupup clinic) will identify key enablers and barriers to the ongoing provision of pregnancy care in a dedicated clinic for Aboriginal women. The primary purpose of this study is to ascertain whether the Bupup clinic at MH (inclusive of the AMC), provides a model of care that is feasible and acceptable for Aboriginal women and health professionals. Our secondary purpose is to explore how to best develop a safe and appropriate place for Aboriginal women to have community-based activities and maintain connection with culture and country in the region Monash Health serves. This evaluation aims: 1.To investigate Aboriginal women’s and health professionals’ perspectives on the feasibility and acceptability of the Bupup clinic; 2. To ascertain Aboriginal women and health professionals’ perspectives on how the Bupup clinic can be enhanced to ensure sustainability; 3. To explore how to develop a safe and appropriate place for Aboriginal women to have community-based activities and maintain connection with culture and country.
The evidence will be used to advocate for increased Aboriginal health resources in maternity care at MH.This evaluation will observe an Indigenous research paradigm. In doing so, this research will ensure the approaches taken in all aspects of the research process and practices incorporates Indigenous world views, perspectives and lived experiences, and recognises Aboriginal peoples view of health involves psychological, social, spiritual, cultural and the physical aspects for a person and community. An Aboriginal research assistant who has highly developed skills in yarning methodology will conduct all interviews with women. The ethics application will adhere to the NHMRC Ethical guidelines for research with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.