2012
Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (2012)
An introduction to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health cultural protocols and perspectives.
Melbourne: Royal Australian College of General Practitioners
This document for general practitioners and other health professionals provides a guide to appropriate and respectful ways of interacting with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It was written by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) for College members and staff. It gives background information and guidance on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives, along with an understanding of important protocols and other relevant cultural issues. Topics covered by the guide include:
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, and why it matters
- core principles for working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
- protocols for culturally respectful engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
- culturally appropriate communication
- consulting with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities
- conducting meetings with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and groups
- use of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander intellectual and cultural property
- event planning: observation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural protocol
- undertaking projects and research.
The guide emphasises that general practitioners should seek local cultural training to supplement their learning.
Abstract adapted from Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP)