Trial of an asthma action plan in the Maori community of the Wairarapa

Abstract

Aims: An asthma action plan has been tested in a study conducted by Wairarapa Maori community health workers and the Wellington asthma research group. There were several distinctive features of the project, including the programme of marae-based asthma clinics, and the partnership between the researchers and the Maori community groups. This paper describes the process by which the study was conducted since this experience may be relevant to future Maori health research projects.

Methods: The programme was launched with a series of hui at marae in the Wairarapa, and marae-based clinics were set up. These were followed up by further support from the Maori community health workers who helped people to keep diaries to monitor their asthma, and generally maintained contact. The severity of asthma in the participants was compared for a two-month period before the action plan was introduced, and for a four-month period after the plan was introduced.

Results: There was a high participation rate, with 91% (63/69) of participants finishing the programme, 75% of whom adequately completed their daily asthma diaries. Asthma control improved significantly in the participants. They commented positively on the programme, and particularly on the marae-based clinics.

Conclusions: The study was successful in terms of participation in the marae-based clinics, acceptance and use of the plan, and improvement in asthma control of the participants. The findings indicate what can be achieved when researchers and Maori community groups work in partnership.