Indigenous community members as teachers of indigenous health

Educating the health workforce in indigenous health has been set as a high priority by educational bodies and providers of general practice training. These groups advise the involvement of local indigenous communities in medical teaching and training. Few have asked community members what issues are important to them when teaching health professionals.

This article discusses the outcomes of focus groups and interviews of indigenous community members regarding the engagement in education activities, barriers to participation, and supports required for ongoing participation.

Results reveal insights into indigenous community members' perceptions, understanding of, and participation in, cross cultural teaching. Cross cultural interactions can be both rewarding and a risk to the teaching process. This needs to be managed and facilitated appropriately and in a timely manner.