Experiences and views of a brokerage model for primary care for Aboriginal people.

OBJECTIVE A mixed methods study was conducted to determine the views of Aboriginal people on their experiences of a brokerage model for access to community-based health services in an urban setting. METHODS A broad range of approaches, using surveys, semi-structured interviews and community forums with Aboriginal people were used to find out people's views and experiences of using the brokerage service. RESULTS Of the 1304 people invited to participate, only 127 people provided feedback on the brokerage service model for Aboriginal people. Of these, 120 people identified as being Aboriginal. Participants said that the service helped them to navigate the system and access health care. Participants felt that the health professionals involved with the service were respectful of their needs. The service was not able to improve access to dental care. CONCLUSIONS The brokerage model implemented in this area appears to have been well received and is supporting urban Aboriginal people to access some of the health care needed.