The 'Living Model': A Resource Manual for Indigenous Palliative Care Service Delivery

Abstract

This publication presents a Living Model to be used in providing best practice palliative care services to Indigenous patients, their carers and their families. This generic model, adaptable to the unique circumstances of diverse service providers, is informed by the insights of Indigenous peoples and health care workers of the Northern Territory, Australia. The application of this model is driven by eight important principles that should inform palliative care service delivery to Indigenous people: cultural safety, equity, autonomy, the importance of truth, humane non-judgmental care, seamless care, emphasis on living and respect. What is? What works? What is needed? The Living Model was developed through an exploration of three questions relating to Indigenous palliative care: What is? What works? What is needed? These questions lead to the gathering of a rich body of information relating to Indigenous understandings of palliative care, illness and issues of death and dying. The excellent practices of existing health and palliative care services are also documented in this book. These best practice examples demonstrate the ways in which effective, culturally sensitive palliative care can be delivered to Indigenous Australians. The book also explores the severe barriers to palliative care that presently exist for Indigenous Australians, especially those living in rural and remote areas. Workshops for Applying the Model The authors conduct workshops with educators, service providers and policy makers to facilitate the process of applying the model to the specific circumstance of individual organisations. These workshops enable participants to apply the model to their specific situations whilst also acting to showcase the excellent resources that are already available for seriously ill Aboriginal peoples.