Identify & describe the community of choice Assessment Answer

The Indigenous Australian community residing in the Gold Coast, Queensland, comprises a dynamic blend of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, contributing to the city's cultural tapestry. As of 2021, Indigenous Australians accounted for approximately 3.7% of the Gold Coast's population, reflecting a significant and enduring presence (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2021). The Yugambeh people, in particular, stand as traditional custodians of the region, underscoring the profound historical and cultural ties to the land. Nonetheless, the community faces persistent challenges rooted in historical injustices and ongoing disparities (City of Gold Coast, 2023). According to the 2016 report from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the unemployment rate of Indigenous Australians was 18.4%—almost three times higher than the rate for non-Indigenous Australians at 6.8%, indicating existing inequalities that need to be addressed (OECD, 2016).

Despite these obstacles, Indigenous Australians on the Gold Coast are proactively engaged in cultural preservation and promotion. The Yugambeh Museum plays a pivotal role in this endeavour by offering comprehensive cultural education programs, organising community events, and fostering connections with traditional knowledge holders (Queensland Indigenous Languages Advisory Committee, n.d). Moreover, the Gold Coast City Council's Reconciliation Action Plan showcases the city's commitment to supporting its Indigenous communities. This plan encompasses initiatives such as cultural awareness training for staff, collaboration with local Indigenous artists for public art projects, and acknowledging traditional owners at events (Queensland Government, 2022).

Discuss the Short, Medium and Long-term Impacts of the Health Issue in the Chosen Community

Short-Term Impacts of Immunisation Coverage

In the short term, the significance of immunisation coverage in the Indigenous Australian community becomes evident through the reduction in vaccine-preventable diseases. Childhood vaccination coverage among Indigenous children aged 1-5 has experienced marked improvements. Statistics from the National Preventive Health Strategy indicate that coverage rates for recommended vaccines surged from around 87.5% in 2010-2011 to approximately 91% in 2020 (Department of Health, 2021). This progress directly translates into fewer infectious diseases like invasive pneumococcal disease and influenza among Indigenous children. The immediate impact of this increased coverage is evident in lower disease incidence rates and decreased hospitalisations, reflecting the efficacy of immunisation in protecting vulnerable populations (Kelly et al., 2022).

Medium-Term Impacts

In the medium term, the benefits of sustained immunisation coverage shine through establishing herd immunity. According to research by McHugh et al. (2023), whooping cough (pertussis) in Indigenous communities has been significantly reduced as a result of high vaccination rates. This extensive vaccination program has decreased the prevalence of sickness among Indigenous people and has also been crucial in protecting vulnerable infants, who are more likely to experience serious consequences. Such medium-term impacts contribute to a decline in disease burden and fewer hospitalisations, ultimately enhancing the overall health outcomes within the community (Markham & Smith, 2020).

Long-Term Impacts

Looking ahead, the enduring effects of consistent immunisation coverage extend to the potential elimination of historically significant diseases from Indigenous communities of Gold Coast. Australia's progress in eradicating rubella underscores the influence of targeted vaccination efforts, including Indigenous-specific programs (Glynn-Robinson et al., 2022). Moreover, the global eradication of smallpox serves as a testament to the potential long-term impact of sustained vaccination campaigns, demonstrating the possibility of eliminating diseases that have historically afflicted Indigenous populations (World Health Organisation, 2020).

Discuss the Benefits of Conducting a Needs Assessment in This Community

A needs assessment is a methodical procedure that identifies social needs or concerns in a location or population group and establishes which problems should be given priority for respective solutions. Conducting a comprehensive needs assessment within the Indigenous Australian community holds a pivotal role in addressing their unique challenges and crafting interventions that cater to their specific requirements (Australian Institute of Family Studies [AIFS], 2019). Firstly, a needs assessment facilitates the judicious allocation of limited resources, channelling them towards areas of utmost urgency. Data from the Queensland Government indicates that Indigenous Australians living on Gold Coast face disproportionate rates of chronic illnesses, mental health concerns, and substance abuse (Queensland Government, 2022). By pinpointing these disparities, a needs assessment empowers policymakers and healthcare providers to strategically distribute resources strategically, thereby effectively tackling these pressing health issues (AIFS, 2019).

Secondly, the diverse cultural and social contexts of Indigenous Australians underscore the need for healthcare solutions that are culturally sensitive and pertinent (Butler et al., 2022). A study by Wettasinghe et al. (2020) underscores the pivotal role of culturally appropriate care in achieving positive health outcomes. A needs assessment serves to uncover these cultural nuances, allowing for the creation of interventions that respect and integrate cultural practices and preferences. This not only enhances health outcomes but also nurtures a foundation of trust between healthcare providers and the community (AIFS, 2019).

.Moreover, a needs assessment plays a vital role in bridging health inequalities, a goal that initiatives like "Closing the Gap" emphasise. By identifying gaps in health outcomes and service delivery, a needs assessment furnishes tangible data to monitor progress and identify areas that require attention. This synergy aligns harmoniously with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3, which strives to ensure healthy lives and overall well-being for all individuals. Additionally, community involvement in the assessment process empowers Indigenous communities, fostering ownership, participation, and empowerment (Department of Health, 2021). The "National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan 2013–2023" underscores the centrality of community engagement. Through a needs assessment, communities are empowered to contribute their insights, cultivating collaboration, partnerships, and an increased capacity to implement efficacious interventions (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare [AIHW], 2014).

Discuss the Role of the Nurse in Conducting the Needs Assessment in This Community

In the process of conducting a needs assessment within the Indigenous Australian community of Gold Coast, nurses play an indispensable and multifaceted role that spans healthcare delivery, cultural sensitivity, community engagement, and advocacy (Queensland Government, 2022). As frontline healthcare professionals, nurses are uniquely poised to gather vital data, establish rapport with the community, and tailor interventions to align with the community's distinct requirements. Their involvement holds paramount importance in addressing healthcare disparities and promoting equitable access to healthcare services (Topp et al., 2019).

Nurses are responsible for collaboratively collecting and analysing comprehensive health data, which encompasses a wide array of factors, including prevalent health conditions, immunisation rates, and healthcare service accessibility tailored to the specific Indigenous context. Drawing on their robust clinical expertise, nurses ensure that data collection and interpretation are accurate and culturally sensitive, leading to the identification of key health gaps and priorities that demand immediate attention (Topp et al., 2019). Cultural competence is a hallmark of the nurse's role in this process. Nurses approach the needs assessment with cultural humility, recognising the historical, sociocultural, and spiritual aspects that shape health beliefs and practices within the Indigenous community (Walshe et al., 2022). By engaging with community members and leaders, nurses foster open dialogues, build trust, and establish partnerships, thus ensuring that the assessment process remains community-driven and reflective of the community's unique needs and aspirations (Butler et al., 2022).

Identifying health priorities is another pivotal role nurses undertake. Through their interactions and professional insights, nurses collaborate with healthcare teams and policymakers to pinpoint areas that require targeted interventions, such as chronic disease management, maternal and child health, mental health support, and the improvement of crucial resources like clean water and sanitation (Desveaux et al., 2019). Subsequently, nurses contribute to the development of interventions that are culturally tailored and relevant, ensuring the highest likelihood of success and engagement within the community. Lastly, nurses also function as educators and advocates, empowering community members with knowledge about health promotion, disease prevention, and the significance of seeking and utilising healthcare services (Kim et al., 2022).

Identify Three Needs of the Community Which Will Assist to Promote Improved Health Outcomes 

Three critical needs of the Indigenous Australian community in Gold Coast for promoting improved health outcomes include- Firstly, access to culturally sensitive healthcare services, effective chronic disease management strategies, and enhanced mental health and well-being support.

Secondly, customised healthcare approaches that respect cultural values and beliefs, interventions targeting the high prevalence of chronic diseases, and culturally appropriate mental health services are essential to address disparities and foster better health within the community.

Thirdly, collaborative efforts involving healthcare providers, Indigenous leaders, and policymakers are crucial in meeting these needs and ensuring a healthier future for Indigenous Australians (Queensland Government, 2022).

Discuss the Resources Required to Address the Three Needs and Provide a Rationale for the Selected Resources

Addressing the critical needs of the Indigenous Australian community in Gold Coast for improved health outcomes demands a comprehensive range of resources that are intricately tailored to the community's unique challenges, historical context, and cultural sensitivities. For the first need, culturally sensitive healthcare services, a crucial resource is the training of healthcare providers in cultural competence. This empowers them to deliver care that respects Indigenous traditions, thereby enhancing patient trust and engagement (Kaihlanen et al., 2019). Additionally, Indigenous health workers play a pivotal role in bridging cultural gaps, advocating for patients, and fostering cultural safety within healthcare settings. The inclusion of interpreters and translators ensures effective communication for patients who speak diverse Indigenous languages (Tremblay et al., 2021). In the context of chronic disease management, community health education programs are vital resources that empower individuals with the knowledge and tools to adopt healthy lifestyles.

Regular health screenings and check-ups establish a foundation for early detection and intervention. Moreover, ensuring access to nutritious food through collaborations with local suppliers and community gardens strengthens efforts to manage and prevent chronic diseases (Lord et al., 2021). For mental health and well-being support, culturally relevant counselling services are essential to creating an environment where individuals feel understood and comfortable seeking help. Community healing circles and trauma-informed care training equip healthcare providers with the tools to address historical trauma and approach mental health support with empathy. Collectively, these resources are chosen to align with the community's cultural context, ensuring interventions are respectful, relevant, and effective (Ahmed et al., 2021).

Provide an Analysis of How These Outcomes Would Address the Health Issue

The anticipated outcomes of addressing immunisation coverage issues in the Indigenous Australian community in the Gold Coast align closely with the principles outlined in the Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion. The Ottawa Charter emphasises five key strategies: building healthy public policies, creating supportive environments, strengthening community actions, developing personal skills, and reorienting health services. Analysing the expected outcomes in this context reveals their alignment with these strategies (Better Health, 2021). Firstly, the short-term outcome of improved healthcare access directly resonates with the principle of building healthy public policies. By ensuring that immunisation services are culturally sensitive and easily accessible, policies can be established that prioritises equitable healthcare for the Indigenous community.

These policies acknowledge the unique cultural needs and historical contexts of the community, ultimately breaking down barriers to immunisation access and enhancing coverage rates (Aggarwal et al., 2023). Secondly, the medium-term outcomes of heightened community awareness and effective disease management mirror the emphasis on strengthening community actions. Educational programs on immunisation not only empower individuals with knowledge but also encourage collective action within the community (Pearson et al., 2020). Moreover, the focus on effective disease management showcases the community's active role in taking charge of their health, aligning with the Ottawa Charter's emphasis on community empowerment (Canuto et al., 2021).

Creating supportive environments is another key principle reflected in the anticipated outcomes. The long-term goals of equitable health outcomes and cultural revival contribute to the creation of an environment where health is prioritised and supported. By addressing immunisation coverage issues, the community demonstrates a commitment to overall well-being, which can foster an environment where immunisation is seen as integral to health. Additionally, cultural revival promotes a sense of identity and community cohesion, creating a positive environment that encourages health-promoting behaviours (Decouttere et al., 2021). The principle of developing personal skills is evident in the medium-term outcome of enhanced mental well-being.

By offering culturally relevant counselling and trauma-informed care, the community equips individuals with essential skills to manage their mental health. Improved mental well-being enhances the overall quality of life and empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health, including seeking timely immunisations (Lewis et al., 2023). Finally, the Ottawa Charter's principle of reorienting health services is encompassed in all the expected outcomes. The community's concerted effort to address immunisation coverage issues reflects a broader commitment to transforming health services to be culturally sensitive and community-driven (Haugan & Eriksson, 2021).

D. Map of community area – this image needs to define the area of the community you have chosen (pin health care services to map)

Source: https://www.publications.qld.gov.au/ckan-publications-attachments-prod/resources

References

Aggarwal, M., Kokorelias, K. M., Glazier, R. H., Katz, A., Shiers-Hanley, J. E., & Upshur, R. E. (2023). What is the role of primary care in the COVID-19 vaccine roll-out and the barriers and facilitators to an equitable vaccine roll-out? A rapid scoping review of nine jurisdictions. BMJ Open, 13 (4), e065306. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2022-065306

Ahmed, F., Zuk, A. M., & Tsuji, L. J. (2021). The impact of land-based physical activity interventions on self-reported health and well-being of Indigenous adults: A systematic review. International Journal Of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18 (13), 7099. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18137099

Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2021). Gold Coast. https://abs.gov.au/census/find-census-data/quickstats/2021/LGA33430

Australian Institute of Family Studies. (2019). Needs assessment. https://aifs.gov.au/resources/practice-guides/needs-assessment

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. (2014). Effective strategies to strengthen the mental health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. https://www.aihw.gov.au/getmedia/6d50a4d2-d4da-4c53-8aeb-9ec22b856dc5/ctgc

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City of Gold Coast. (2023). Indigenous history & heritage. https://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/Council-region/About-our-city/Indigenous-people/Indigenous-history-heritage

Decouttere, C., De Boeck, K., & Vandaele, N. (2021). Advancing sustainable development goals through immunization: A literature review. Globalization and Health, 17 (1), 95. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12992-021-00745-w

Department of Health. (2021). National Preventive Health Strategy 2021–2030. https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/national-preventive-health-strategy-2021-2030

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Haugan, G., & Eriksson, M. (2021). An introduction to the health promotion perspective in the health care services. Health Promotion in Health Care–Vital Theories and Research, 3-14. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-63135-2

 Kaihlanen, A. M., Hietapakka, L., & Heponiemi, T. (2019). Increasing cultural awareness: Qualitative study of nurses’ perceptions about cultural competence training. BMC Nursing, 18 (1), 1-9. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12912-019-0363-x

Kelly, S. L., Le Rutte, E. A., Richter, M., Penny, M. A., & Shattock, A. J. (2022). COVID-19 vaccine booster strategies in light of emerging viral variants: Frequency, timing, and target groups. Infectious Diseases and Therapy, 11 (5), 2045-2061. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40121-022-00683-z

Kim, M. T., Heitkemper, E. M., Hébert, E. T., Hecht, J., Crawford, A., Nnaka, T., & Radhakrishnan, K. (2022). Redesigning culturally tailored intervention in the precision health era: Self-management science context. Nursing Outlook, 70 (5), 710-724. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.outlook.2022.05.015

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