Driven to fix Māori health outcomes
For as long as she can remember Michelle Murray has been passionate about making things right for Māori. Her sister’s passing has given her even more personal motivation.
OPINION: This is quite emotional so bear with me. Seven years ago, one of my sisters, Joleen, passed away from breast cancer. It was a really hard time for our whānau. It’s still raw and hard to talk about.
At work, I think about my sister all the time. I think about how I want to change outcomes like hers for other Māori. Her death could have been prevented if we had detected her cancer earlier.
At home, my husband and I care for her eldest son and daughter, embracing them alongside our own two children.
It’s awesome to have them in our whānau. I love it. Of course, we’d rather my sister was here with us all, but we are blessed to be kaitiaki (guardians) of her children.
For as long as I can remember I’ve been passionate about making things right for Māori. My sister’s passing has given me even more personal motivation.
I am one of four sisters. I am the tuakana (eldest sister) and with that comes responsibility. I have always been the organiser.
We were born and raised in Kawerau in the Bay of Plenty. From what I have experienced, there are different access and outcomes for Māori, especially for those who live rurally, compared to non-Māori.
We need to change that. And we are.
There is a common trend among Māori where we don’t want to make a fuss – that resonates when it comes to my whānau.
When I am asked what advice I offer Māori when it comes to ACC it’s not a straightforward answer. Of course, we want all New Zealanders to have the help and the support they need.
Our data shows Māori are twice as likely to experience a serious injury. However, overall Māori are less likely to make an ACC claim (by around 18 per cent). This inequitable situation doesn’t sit right with ACC, and we are committed to changing it.
There are a number of barriers for Māori accessing ACC support. We need to ensure we’re letting whānau know what types of services and support ACC can provide.
There are also perceptions that also stop people seeking help. Some people don’t believe their injury is serious enough.
Some can’t afford to have time off work as the sole breadwinner. Others believe there are treatment costs that they cannot afford. Some have had previous poor experiences of healthcare.
There are also many challenges in reaching Māori audiences.
We need to build trust and partner with our whānau.
When I look at my sister’s tamariki (children) and my tamariki, I want to improve outcomes for the next generation of Māori.
I am proud to be their māmā and look after them. It’s the right thing to do.
I want to give these tamariki the best start in life and that is just what you do for whānau.
And I believe that is how ACC should be positioned as well, it’s all about whānau, that for me is the WHY!
What is the right thing to do for our tāngata (people)? Well, then let’s make it happen.
We have set the stage for increased trust and meaningful change – a new chapter in ACC’s relationship with Māori that has already begun.
Michelle Murray is the ACC Tumu Pae Ora (Chief Māori and Equity Officer). She talks about her personal motivation to improve health outcomes for Māori.