Pacific secondary school students' access to primary health care in New Zealand

Previous research states Pacific peoples' experience barriers to primary care. A better understanding of young Pacific peoples' experiences and perspectives on health services can improve responsiveness to young Pacific New Zealanders' health needs. This study identifies primary health (including dental care) barriers in access, utilisation and unmet need for Pacific youth ages 13-17 years.

Data were collected as part of Youth'07, a nationally representative survey of the health and wellbeing of New Zealand (NZ) adolescents. 1178 Pacific students who identified any of their ethnicities as Samoan, Cook Islands, Tongan, Niue, Tokelauan, Fijian, or Other Pacific Peoples were included.

Compared to their NZ European peers, Pacific youth accessed primary health care services, including dental care less often in the previous year; Pacific students were twice more likely to forego accessing health care and dental care when needed; were more likely to find it difficult to get healthcare for specific health issues like injuries/accident; to stop smoking, alcohol/drugs use and for chronic conditions. Not knowing how to access healthcare and rating unfair treatment by health professionals due to their ethnicity were significant factors impacting access.

Good access and utilisation of primary care services is an important resource of preventable health for Pacific New Zealanders. This study finds that Pacific youth are an underserved group experiencing inequitable access within the current primary healthcare sector. Innovative approaches to specialist youth-oriented healthcare services, professional training and increasing the Pacific health workforce are recommended interventions.