Pacific service providers' experiences during the Covid-19 pandemic in Aotearoa, New Zealand
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Keywords
Covid-19 pandemic, Pacific service providers, New Zealand
Abstract
Objective: This study explored the experiences of Pacific service providers in Aotearoa during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods: Using Talanoa methods, interviews with seven participants in a focus group revealed key impacts in this group.
Findings: Three themes emerged including frontline work challenges, impacts of mental health challenges within the community, and systemic service delivery issues.
Conclusion: The research emphasizes the need for culturally responsive health interventions and the importance of Pacific leadership (e.g., churches and community organizations) in navigating crises. The study concludes with recommendations for future crisis preparedness, including targeted public health strategies, equitable access to services, and more robust community engagement in policy development to support Pacific communities during times of crisis.
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