Protocol for the Yapatjarrathati project: a mixed-method implementation trial of a tiered assessment process for identifying fetal alcohol spectrum disorders in a remote Australian community
In this project, researchers and the community co-designed a culturally sensitive assessment process for identifying Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).
Shanley, D. C., Hawkins, E., Page, M., Shelton, D., Liu, W., Webster, H., ... & O’Callaghan, F. (2019). Protocol for the Yapatjarrathati project: a mixed-method implementation trial of a tiered assessment process for identifying fetal alcohol spectrum disorders in a remote Australian community. BMC health services research, 19(1), 649.
Community-based participatory action research. Tools included story-telling, sharing meals, interviews and FASD assessment questionnaire, training and mentoring of health practitioners.
This article is the study protocol for the Yapatjarrathati project (meaning "to get well"). In this project, researchers and the community co-designed a culturally sensitive assessment process for identifying Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). The project, based in north Queensland, Australia, also aims to up-skill remote community practitioners in the neurodevelopmental assessment process.
The research was co-designed with the Indigenous community. It is based on a two-way learning and teaching process, where the researchers and the community play both roles.
The health of Indigenous communities reflects the inequalities of the society. Attempts to improve individual health are more likely to succeed when they are based on and reflect the collective health needs of the community.
Interviews, questionnaires, a co-designed neurodevelopmental assessment process, training materials
The research co-created a cultural protocol for working with Indigenous communities. The protocol is based on Indigenous worldviews and includes themes of 'respect, responsibility, reciprocity, and cultural continuity.' The research also developed an assessment tool to diagnose fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, in remote communities by health workers with varying range of skills.
"This co-design process places the community's values and needs at the very heart of the research outcomes." (p. 4)
"This project highlights how we can work together with local communities to embrace concepts of First Nations wellbeing, knowledge and sovereignty; use a strengths-based approach; and build a healthy future together." (p. 9)
Health
Indigenous Health
Neurodevelopment