The WHO defines health as “a state of complete physical, mental, and societal well-being, not just the absence of disease or infirmity.” Despite this comprehensive definition, a significant portion of healthcare prioritises physical health, overlooking other vital determinants that significantly influence individuals’ overall health and wellbeing.<\/p>\n
The introduction of integrated care systems (ICSs) in the UK and the growing emphasis on a more holistic approach provide an opportune moment to better address needs and improve healthcare outcomes. Holistic healthcare delivery has been shown to lead to better patient outcomes, reduced barriers to access, and overall superior health.<\/p>\n
Wh\u0101nau Ora, a holistic health and social care model originating from New Zealand, serves as an exemplary, culturally grounded, integrated approach that is driving positive outcomes across the country. By embedding a holistic health and social care focus, it aims to provide wraparound services centred on supporting not only the individual but also the wh\u0101nau (extended family) that surrounds them.<\/p>\n
While the path to developing and implementing Wh\u0101nau Ora has been iterative and not without its challenges, there is much that can be\u00a0learnt\u00a0and adopted in the UK and worldwide from Wh\u0101nau Ora’s efforts in developing, defining, and implementing this model and its underlying philosophy.<\/p>\n
The social determinants of health, the conditions in the environments we inhabit, play a crucial role in shaping our health and wellbeing. Understanding and addressing these environmental influences is essential to enhance health outcomes and reduce disparities. Studies indicate<\/a> that social determinants may exert a more profound impact on health than individual lifestyle choices.<\/p>\n A hallmark of Wh\u0101nau Ora is its emphasis on the individual’s broader context,\u00a0recognising\u00a0that their health is influenced by their surroundings. By promoting and improving health and social outcomes across a collective, rather than solely focusing on the individual, better\u00a0health outcomes can be achieved. Wh\u0101nau Ora has demonstrated positive and meaningful results<\/a> across a spectrum of health and social determinants. By encompassing all dimensions of health and wellbeing, rather than a more\u00a0medicalised, linear approach concentrated primarily on physical health, Wh\u0101nau Ora has ensured that outcomes address the diverse needs of individuals across a range of key factors.<\/p>\n Within ICSs, a deeper understanding of an individual\u2019s unique circumstances and environments is vital in reducing disparities and supporting positive health outcomes. Shifting towards long-term change and prevention, as opposed to treatment, is paramount. Developing a model of care that incorporates a more holistic approach is crucial for the NHS to advance and deliver better long-term outcomes for the UK.<\/p>\n Ensuring service users are connected with the right support at the right time can be a challenge across any health system. Those who are vulnerable or facing disadvantage often face greater difficulty<\/a> in accessing services, translating to greater disparities in outcomes.<\/p>\n Kai\u0101rahi (navigators) play an integral role in Wh\u0101nau Ora service delivery, acting as a key connector, helping families to identify needs, prepare, plan, and use services effectively. Here, navigators act as a broker in accessing services; ones that meet the unique needs of the person accessing them. They also work as a go-between, understanding service demands and identifying opportunities for intervention to better meet ongoing needs.<\/p>\n The use of navigators has been shown to be an effective tool in improving identification of needs, access to care and navigation of care services across a range of different settings. This is particularly prevalent for indigenous groups and those facing barriers to accessing services and support.<\/p>\n
\nNavigating the grey: connectors across services and support<\/h3>\n