Lay summary
There is a growing interest in the influence of culture on pain, however very little has been published on how Maori view the experience of pain, the prevalence of pain, and impact of pain for Maori. The relationship between Maori patients, their whanau and clinical practitioners is vital for effective health outcomes for Maori. However clinicians committed to improving health outcomes for Maori face challenges in the delivery of culturally-appropriate care. Working in partnership, Hauora Hokianga clinicians and community development researchers along with Hokianga-based researchers, hapu and iwi, will carry out research employing an ethnographic model of research that will incorporate Maori models of ethics and engagement, building a distinct body of knowledge on how Maori manage pain. From this knowledge we will develop an educative tool to assist clinicians in their delivery of healthcare services to Maori that will impact on the health and wellbeing of Maori patients.