Māori Pharmacists: Staying, going, or gone?
About this research
Intern
Shelby Rupa-Hayward, Ngāpuhi, University of Otago
Supervisor
Dr Lisa Kremer, The University of Otago
Overview
Māori pharmacists make up less than 3% of the total number of registered pharmacists in Aotearoa. An immense amount of work goes into recruitment of future pharmacists into the profession, however reasons for why Māori pharmacists stay, consider leaving, or leave the profession are not well understood. The purpose of this research is to understand reasons and critical factors that influence Māori pharmacists’ decisions around their pharmacy career.
The intern carried out a literature review for publications on Indigenous pharmacists’ views on the pharmacy profession. Then they ran an online Qualtrix survey of all known Māori pharmacists (practicing and non-practicing) through a distribution list held at the Pharmacy Council of New Zealand and through Ngā Kaitiaki o Te Puna Rongoā o Aotearoa networks. Following completion of the online survey, the intern supported preliminary analysis of the data and had the opportunity to co-author a manuscript to disseminate results within an open access journal.
Why do Māori pharmacists stay—or leave—the profession? This project explored the career experiences of Māori pharmacists, using surveys and literature to uncover the key factors influencing their decisions. The findings will help shape a more supportive and sustainable future for Māori in pharmacy.