Achieving equity

The Collaborative works with an overarching principle of ‘achieving equity in a culturally responsive way’ with a strong focus on making sure that all whānau impacted by preterm birth have the same opportunities for the best outcome. At present, this is not the case, often due to systemic problems that affect the health and well-being of some people and their access to consistent high-quality healthcare. These issues include the effects of colonisation, racism, geographical constraints and variation in practice, and inequity in resourcing.

We know that Asian and European whānau experience preterm birth less often than Māori, Pacific and Indian whānau, and that their pēpi are more likely to survive if born very early (before 28 weeks). We also know that the chance of preterm birth varies depending on where you live in Aotearoa and that pēpi born very early outside of metropolitan centres receive different treatment and are less likely to survive.

Other sociodemographic factors can further compound differences seen by ethnicity and geography. For example, wāhine/people who are Takatāpui/Rainbow community members or tangata whaikaha/living with disability may be further impacted by the effects of intersectional marginalisation.

These differences are unjust and unfair. We are committed to improving preterm birth care and support across Aotearoa, so that we can achieve the best outcomes for all whānau, whoever they are and wherever they live.