Tackling healthcare inequity through allyship: Roche Diagnostics MD voices importance of Indigenous Elders

MedTech & Diagnostics News: In honour of NAIDOC Week, this second Health Industry Hub interview showcases Allison Rossiter, Managing Director of Roche Diagnostics Australia, reflecting on the theme For Our Elders and discussing the company’s collaboration to tackle healthcare disparities among Indigenous communities.

The interview delved into the health inequities impacting First Nations people, including the pressing issue of rheumatic heart disease. Working alongside the three experts, Ms Rossiter and her team are co-designing an Indigenous-led solution to tackle this disease.

“When you hear about these children who have terrible outcomes, who have to undergo heart operations or face lifelong hardships, it really hits home. As a mother of three, it breaks my heart. That’s why working together with these three experts, we are looking at how we can co-design an indigenous-led solution to tackle rheumatic heart disease,” she said.

Ms Rossiter shared her perspective on the importance of community-led responses and the need for a multi-pronged approach.

“We need to find ways to involve the Elders, working with the people who really understand what’s important to the Indigenous communities. They have a different perspective on health, and it’s crucial that we don’t make assumptions. By including those who can help influence and understand the needs of these populations, we can make a real difference,” she shared.

When asked about the role of policymakers in addressing barriers to health equity among First Nations people, Ms Rossiter acknowledged the fragmented nature of the healthcare system and the challenges it presents.

She stressed “We’re not going to solve the problems solely from Canberra”. Instead, she advocated for a collaborative approach with respected individuals within Indigenous communities to ensure their voices are heard and their needs are met.

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