Evaluating an Indigenous-led implementation research network for community health providers in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Background: Māori and Pacific communities in Aotearoa New Zealand experience inequitable health outcomes. To support equity-focused implementation of appropriate initiatives, a provider-centred learning collaborative was established—the Healthier Lives Implementation Network—bringing together commun...

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Published in:Discover Public Health Vol. 23; no. 1; pp. 1 - 11
Main Authors: Oetzel, John G., Henry, Akarere, Penetito-Hemara, Darrio, Povaru-Bourne, Sulita, Te Puke, Tori, Ngawati, Renei, Sika-Paotonu, Dianne
Format: research tables/charts Journal Article
Published: Springer Nature 6/22/2026
Online Access:View this record in EBSCOhost
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      dt: 6/22/2026
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      pub: Springer Nature
      place: New York, New York
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        10.1186/s12982-026-02392-1
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        atl: Evaluating an Indigenous-led implementation research network for community health providers in Aotearoa New Zealand.
      aug:
        au:
          Oetzel, John G.
          Henry, Akarere
          Penetito-Hemara, Darrio
          Povaru-Bourne, Sulita
          Te Puke, Tori
          Ngawati, Renei
          Sika-Paotonu, Dianne
        affil: https://ror.org/013fsnh78 University of Waikato, Private Bag 3105, 3240, Hamilton, New Zealand
      sug:
        subj:
          Indigenous Health New Zealand
          Health Promotion
          Diversity, Equity, Inclusion
          Research, Medical
          Program Implementation
          Program Evaluation
          Human
          Multimethod Studies
          Cross Sectional Studies
          Nonexperimental Studies
          New Zealand
          Implementation Science
          Collaboration
          Maori
          Health Services Accessibility
          Surveys
          Thematic Analysis
          Data Analysis Software
          Funding Source
      ab: Background: Māori and Pacific communities in Aotearoa New Zealand experience inequitable health outcomes. To support equity-focused implementation of appropriate initiatives, a provider-centred learning collaborative was established—the Healthier Lives Implementation Network—bringing together community providers, researchers, and health system partners. This network developed a communication infrastructure and engaged in an exploratory research project on implementation barriers and facilitators, as well as four implementation pilot projects with four providers. The purpose of this report is to evaluate the value the network had for its members and identify any areas for improvement. Methods: A mixed methods, cross-sectional evaluation with network members was completed. Data collection involved an online survey (n = 8), a virtual hui-fono (meeting) (n = 4), and semi-structured interviews (n = 11). Descriptive statistics for the survey were provided; thematic analysis was used for the meeting and interviews. Results: The survey respondents indicated a positive evaluation of the network given a mean satisfaction rating of 3.71 on a 4-point scale. Interview and meeting participants identified three core themes that captured the value of the network: collaboration and co-design, connection, and communication. Suggestions focused on increased virtual connection opportunities and short, purpose-built videos. Provider time and workforce capacity were identified as constraints that limited participation in network activities. Conclusions: A provider-centred learning collaborative was valued by Māori and Pacific community providers. Future iterations should seek low-burden connection opportunities and secure resources for sustainability. Contributions to the literature: Demonstrates an Indigenous-led learning collaborative that centres Māori and Pacific providers for implementation efforts. Shows how co-design and integrated knowledge translation can be operationalised at network scale. Identifies practical enablers (collaboration, connection, communication) and constraints (time, workforce) for networked implementation.
      pubtype: Academic Journal
      doctype:
        research
        tables/charts
        Journal Article
      ougenre: Article
    language: English
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