Sāmoan health worker wellbeing in Aotearoa New Zealand – a Pacific-based scoping review - A Pacific-based scoping review

Abstract

Introduction: A strong Sāmoan health workforce is required to improve the health outcomes of a growing Sāmoan population within Aotearoa New Zealand. Initiatives are underway to increase an under-represented Sāmoan health workforce, yet the wellbeing of this workforce and the safety of the spaces they are occupying are unknown.

Methods: A scoping review was undertaken utilising the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis extension for Scoping Reviews to uncover available research exploring the wellbeing and support of Sāmoan health workers. Broad literature searches including databases, search engines, targeted web-based searches, health professional–responsible authorities and related member organisations, digital media, university repositories, and the snowball method allowed coverage of Pacific and Western knowledge, forming a comprehensive understanding of the literature.

Findings: Thirty-four sources focussing on Pacific health worker wellbeing and support formed the final data synthesis. The findings exposed an under-represented Sāmoan health workforce whose wellbeing is hindered by institutional racism, discrimination, undervaluing of cultural knowledge and discourteous additional work. Sāmoan health workers sought holistic support through furthering their education, cultural education and supervision, and strong Pacific leadership in seeking improved wellbeing.

Conclusions: Sāmoan health workers work within Westernised systems and chronic institutionalised racism that does not align with their cultural values and limits their wellbeing. Although some literature was available, more research that is ethnic-specific, focussing on the wellbeing of the health workers themselves and from a Pacific worldview, is urgently required to aid this vital workforce.