Improving the patient journey in Central Australia: Investigating the modifiable factors affecting the dialysis attendance to co-design effective support pathways.

The research addresses the pressing issue of low haemodialysis attendance in Central Australia, impacting on the health outcomes.
This research will conduct a systematic review of the existing literature aiming to identify any research gaps and limitations of previous
studies done in this area. A quantitative analysis is done to quantify the incidence and understand the health outcomes due to low dialysis
attendance among First Nations peoples. Primary outcome measured in the study is incidence of low haemodialysis attendance and
secondary outcomes analysed are morbidity and mortality rates, specifically focusing on all-cause, cardiovascular, and cerebrovascular
mortality, along with hospital admission rates and length of stay.
The qualitative analysis through a collaborative method involving patients and various stakeholders aims to identify the underlying issues
contributing to low attendance rates, including various patient and systemic factors and barriers contributing to low haemodialysis
attendance. Analysis of modifiable drivers of low dialysis attendance through yarning circles with consumers and semi-structured
interviews with clinicians, nurses, health workers and other stakeholders will be conducted. Furthermore, by engaging the stakeholders to
co-design a pathway that improves dialysis attendance and health outcomes. This research not only seeks to fill a critical knowledge gap
but also aims to create practical solutions through a multidisciplinary team approach that will enhance the health outcomes and quality of
life for haemodialysis patients in Central Australia.