Collaborative oral health care project for Aboriginal kidney patients

ADELAIDE: A recent collaborative effort involving the University of Adelaide’s AKction (Aboriginal Kidney Care Together – Improving Outcomes Now) team, and TAFE SA dental hygiene students and educators, including Kelly Clemente, has co-designed strategies to improve oral healthcare for AKction’s Kidney Warriors—First Nations individuals living with kidney disease, highlighting the importance of culturally safe and accessible healthcare for Aboriginal people.

Supported by the Central Adelaide and Northern Adelaide Local Health Networks, the findings of this initiative were published in BMC Oral Health.

The project was co-led by Prof Janet Kelly from the University of Adelaide’s Nursing School and Margie Steffens OAM, an advocate for Oral Health in Vulnerable and Marginalised Communities at the Adelaide Dental School.

Prof Kelly says, “People facing significant challenges are often viewed as passive recipients of care, with minimal influence in a health system driven by top-down policies and biomedical practices. This project sought to counteract this imbalance by co-designing more responsive oral healthcare, recognising Kidney Warriors as knowledgeable participants whose voices and priorities are valued.”

The project also addressed the difficulties in accessing oral healthcare in remote and regional areas, which is especially challenging for individuals with kidney disease.

TAFE SA students visited Kanggawodli Aboriginal Hostel, a culturally safe accommodation for Aboriginal people located over 100 km from Adelaide. Three dialysis chairs were installed at the hostel, enabling Kidney Warriors to undergo dialysis in a supportive environment.

“Oral health is critical for Kidney Warriors to qualify for the kidney transplant waitlist. Good oral hygiene is essential for eligibility, as dental issues increase the risk of post-transplantation infections,” explains Prof Kelly.

During two clinical placements at Kanggawodli, 10 out of 11 students reported feeling more comfortable and aware in delivering culturally safe care. “This initiative is equipping future healthcare professionals to become more effective practitioners,” said Ms. Steffens OAM. “By bringing oral health care to the community, rather than expecting them to seek it out, we improve attendance and engagement,” she added.

The project also benefited from the active involvement of Aboriginal health staff, with the impact of student visits extending beyond the placements.

Ms. Steffens OAM is now collaborating with language translators to create videos and resources in Aboriginal languages, further enhancing access and equity in healthcare.