Best practice principles for research with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in action: Case study of a safe infant sleep strategy

Abstract

BackgroundApproaches to health promotion that are collaborative, support strengths inherent in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, and demonstrate respect and understanding for individual communities, have achieved the most positive outcomes to date. AimTo illustrate how the implementation and evaluation of a safe infant sleep health promotion strategy was facilitated by embedding recognised best practice principles for the conduct of research with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities. MethodsThe Pēpi-Pod® Program was introduced across rural, remote and metropolitan locations in Queensland between 2013 and 2017. This case study discusses the partnership between the Pēpi-Pod® Program and one community-controlled maternal and child health service that employed an Aboriginal Health Worker led model of maternal and child health care for remote regions of Queensland. FindingsBest practice principles were embedded within the program design and adaptation, and in the approach to community consultation prior to program implementation. Collaborative partnerships based on trust, which established stakeholder expectations through transparent communication processes, together with effective engagement in achieving program goals, led to the implementation of this evidence-based health promotion initiative as intended. Consideration for locally relevant and culturally competent program delivery was key to success. The integrity of the program was maintained and embedded into ongoing service delivery. ConclusionsThrough adherence to best practice principles for research with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, implementation and evaluation of health promotion programs can be conducted in mutually acceptable, feasible and sustainable ways that develop capacity within participating health services.