This research aimed to explore the barriers and enablers to accessing and participating in PR education for Pacific people in the Counties Manukau district, AoNZ
A qualitative interpretive approach utilising the Pacific research methods and approaches of talanoa (narrative dialogue) and Teu le va (Pacific concept of nurturing relationships). Pacific participants were recruited from PR programs within three districts of Counties Manukau, AoNZ using purposive sampling. Individual talanoa were conducted both in person and online with five participants where prayer, food and connection were completed before engaging in formal talanoa.
Thematic analysis was undertaken resulting in five themes: 1) “The Pacific learner’s journey” - how pre-expectations and previous educational experiences impacted the likelihood of engagement in education sessions; 2) “Teu Le Va (valuing/nurturing relationships)” - explored Pacific relationality and the interplay between environmental and social factors; 3) “Fa’alavelave’s (commitments and responsibilities)” - how cultural commitments, roles, and responsibilities directly impacted attendance and ability to engage during sessions; 4) “The Pacific learning style and experiences” -factors that enhanced or hindered learning, including learning materials and learning styles; and finally, 5) “Knowledge is power” - Pacific people’s desire to be empowered to learn and self-manage their respiratory health and the impact of health literacy on this process.
Pacific participants are diverse learners requiring varied approaches to education delivery and content. They have previous life experiences and wear many hats within their family units that impact their ability to engage, access, and participate in education within PR. To better support self-management strategies clinicians must culturally adapt and collaborate with Pacific users to change the way PR education is delivered, provide topics that are meaningful, and approach health while considering the social determinants of health impacts.
PR must adapt education content and delivery in collaboration with Pacific communities. Understanding their experiences with PR education sessions is essential to identify barriers and facilitators using participants' own words. By addressing respiratory health education within a Pacific paradigm, PR services can enhance engagement, access, and self-management, potentially reducing hospital admissions and improving quality of life. However, challenges with funding and resources persist.
Pacific health
Pulmonary rehabilitation
