Abstract
Aim: To explore Indigenous End Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD) patients' views on transplantation as a treatment option.
Background: Indigenous Australians suffer a disproportionate burden of
ESKD at an earlier age than non‐Indigenous Australians. However, they are
significantly less likely to receive a transplant. This study reports a
national study of Indigenous ESKD patients' views on transplantation.
Methods: The Improving Access to Kidney Transplants (IMPAKT)
research program investigated barriers to kidney transplantation for Indigenous
Australians. A large interview study elicited illness experience narratives
from 146 patients, including views on transplant. Interviews were conducted at
26 urban, regional and remote sites that collectively treat the majority of
Indigenous ESKD patients.
Results: Four inter‐related themes were identified in patient
commentary: a very high level (90% of respondents) of positive interest in
transplantation; patients reported a range of communication difficulties and
felt uninformed about transplant; family involvement in decision‐making was
similarly constrained by inadequate information; and patients identified a need
to negotiate cultural and social sensitivities around transplantation.
Conclusion: Indigenous ESKD patients demonstrated an intense interest in
transplantation. Patients believe transplant is the path most likely to support
the re‐establishment of their ‘normal’ family life. Most patients had only a
rudimentary knowledge of the notion of transplant but no understanding of
eligibility criteria, the transplant procedure and associated risks. Patients
and their families experienced multiple communication barriers that ‐ taken
together ‐ undermine their engagement in treatment decision‐making. Although
cultural sensitivities associated with transplantation were described, these
did not constrain patients in making choices about their own health. Transplant
units and local treatment providers should develop user‐friendly, culturally
informed and region‐specific education programs regarding transplantation for
Indigenous ESKD patients.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 11-11 |
Number of pages | 1 |
Journal | Nephrology |
Volume | 22 |
Issue number | S3 |
Early online date | 30 Aug 2017 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Sept 2017 |