How a peer-led program tackles health barriers for First Nations Australians
In short: For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians, systemic barriers and stigma often block access to essential care. The Deadly Liver Mob program seeks to bridge this gap through a culturally safe, peer-delivered model designed to increase engagement with vital screenings and education.
In New South Wales, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians face disproportionate impacts from blood-borne viruses (BBVs) and sexually transmissible infections (STIs). These health challenges are compounded by institutional racism and the stigma associated with testing and treatment, which often prevent individuals from accessing primary healthcare. These issues are particularly prevalent among First Nations communities across the country. Such disparities highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions.
To address these systemic hurdles, the Deadly Liver Mob (DLM) was established as an incentivised health promotion program. This initiative is unique because it is delivered by and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, creating a 'one stop shop' for education, screening, treatment, and vaccination. By using a peer-led approach, the program aims to create a safer, more culturally sensitive environment for patients.
Evaluations of the program's 'cascade of care' between 2013 and 2020 reveal significant engagement levels. During this period, 1,787 clients received education through the program. Of those, 74% proceeded to undergo screening. Notably, 42% of the total educated group—representing 57% of those who were screened—returned to receive their results. While the program shows promise, researchers note that clients still 'fall off' the cascade at certain stages, suggesting that future efforts must address remaining barriers such as transportation and the co-location of services. The initiative focuses on increasing access to vaccinations alongside existing services. This comprehensive strategy aims to mitigate the impact of these infections.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Increasing access to screening for blood-borne viruses and sexually transmissible infections for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians: evaluation of the Deadly Liver Mob program's 'cascade of care' across nine sites in New South Wales, Australia.
- Also: Aunty Donna
- Also: Evaluating a complex health promotion program to reduce hepatitis C among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in New South Wales, Australia: the Deadly Liver Mob.
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