The much anticipated RACGP Cultural Awareness training is now available. The 3 hour online activity is available free of charge via the RACGP’s www.gplearning.com.au website (for members including practice managers, practice nurses and medical receptionists) and ClinEd - www.clined.com.au (for PIP participants). The training has been designed as an introduction to Aboriginal cultural awareness and includes the following learning objectives for participants:

• enhance awareness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture and current health issues
• reflect on health service delivery to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
• consider appropriate improvements to cultural safety practices.

Completion of the training will satisfy the PIP Indigenous Health Incentive requirement that “at least two staff (one of whom must be a GP) undertake the cultural awareness training within 12 months of joining the Incentive”. This time-frame was recently adjusted to allow 12 months from the release of the RACGP online training in recognition of its delayed release.

CSGPN delivered an Aboriginal Cultural Awareness CPD in February, which also meets the Indigenous Health PIP requirement and offers a face-to-face alternative to the online training. Participant feedback was very positive. Two future events are planned, one in July and another in October. During the training participants had the opportunity to hear first-hand from a member of the Stolen Generation, Julie Wilson, who is a regular presenter for CSGPN and described some of her personal experiences and offered insights into how general practices can work towards improving their engagement with Aboriginal patients. Participants were invited to ask questions within a safe and non-judgemental environment. A reinforcing activity allowed for personal reflection on attitudes and behaviours that may be acting as barriers or enablers to Aboriginal people accessing their health service.

Why is there a need for cultural safety training for health professionals in Australia?
Despite experiencing higher rates of morbidity Aboriginal people access primary health care less than non-Aboriginal people. One of the main barriers for Aboriginal people accessing mainstream general practice is a lack of cultural sensitivity. This can range from overt racism to sub- tle forms of discrimination such as judgemental attitudes and inflexible rules. Cultural awareness is the first step towards gaining an insight into the Aboriginal experience.

Improved understanding leads to enhanced engagement and ultimately better health outcomes. Cultural awareness training is important for all members of general practice, including reception staff, who are the front line of practices and where first impressions are made.

Practices should also keep in mind that they can register for the Indigenous Health PIP without having completed cultural awareness education, as long as they undertake to complete this training within 12 months of signing on to the Incentive.