First Nations people face racism in hospitals. They told us one thing makes a difference

First Nations Australians continue to face pervasive racism in hospitals, a problem that's worsened since the 2023 Voice referendum, per The Conversation Australia. New research from New South Wales surveyed over four hundred First Nations people across forty-nine hospitals and found this racism has significant health consequences — patients delay care or avoid seeking treatment altogether. One intervention stood out: access to an Aboriginal hospital liaison officer during their stay. These officers help patients navigate the health system, explain medical information in culturally appropriate ways, and advocate for their needs. Yet most hospitals employ just one person for this role, often under-resourced. The health impacts of racism are estimated to cost the Australian economy thirty-seven point nine billion dollars annually.

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