Lay summary
Within Aotearoa New Zealand different ethnic groups of all ages have significantly different health outcomes. Māori and Pacific babies born with life-threatening heart conditions are more likely to die than their European counterparts. In Māori and Pacific babies, diagnoses before birth are made later in pregnancy; after birth, they are more likely to follow a care plan which does not include surgery, a treatment which is potentially life-saving or life-prolonging. Our research will ask why these differences in outcome occur. We will use a combination of detailed analysis of data about the mother, baby and treatment plan from diagnosis in pregnancy to after birth, and interviews with parents/whānau after diagnosis, and again after formulation of the treatment plan. We also will interview health professionals. We aim to build a full picture of the journey of these families to inform future health practices ensuring equitable outcomes for Māori and Pacific babies.