Does support received for subsequent injuries differ between Māori and non-Māori? Findings from a cohort study of injured New Zealanders.

AIMS

To examine if differences exist between injured Māori and non-Māori in accessing and receiving support from the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) for treatment and rehabilitation of subsequent injuries.

METHODS

This cohort study utilised participants' self-reported data from the Prospective Outcomes of Injury Study, and ACC claims data.

RESULTS

Approximately one-third of Māori (32%) and non-Māori (35%) who self-reported a subsequent injury had no associated ACC claim. Statistically significant differences in this outcome (i.e., self-reported subsequent injury but no ACC claim) were found between Māori and non-Māori when comparing across occupation type and severity of participants' sentinel injuries. Few differences were observed between Māori and non-Māori in the percentages of ACC claims accepted that compensated various treatments and supports; this was similar for average compensation amounts provided.

CONCLUSIONS

Māori and non-Māori who received support from ACC for a sentinel injury prior to sustaining another injury appear to have received equitable ACC compensation for the treatment and rehabilitation of the subsequent injury with two potential exceptions. Further research is needed to determine how generalisable these findings are. Establishing routine systems for collecting data about the support needed, treatment pathways and outcomes once accessing ACC support is vital to ensure positive and equitable injury outcomes for Māori.