Perception of the paramedic within the Indian community

Over time, the role of the paramedic has shifted from that of the ambulance driver to a competent, pre-hospital emergency clinician.  Despite this, the question of culturally diverse populations' perception of the role of the paramedic has gone relatively unanswered.  Latest census data between 2001 and 2006 illustrates a continuing increase in multiculturalism in Victoria specifically that of the overseas-born Indian community that shows a 72% increase in the population.  An informed study within this population, which is quickly becoming one of the largest in Melbourne, regarding the perception of the paramedic may reveal certain misconceptions in the understanding of their roles and responsibilities.  These in turn may be related to healthcare disparities, inappropriate callous and a lack of utilisation of the ambulance service within the Indian community.

Potentially, trends revealed in this study could be to use to design and implement educational programs to further inform Indian men and women of their access to the ambulance service.  It is likely to that these results will share similarities with other cultural demographics, prompting an overview of how we educate the public on the ambulance service.  This may be beneficial in improving overall patient outcomes and improving the efficiency of the ambulance service.

Project Members

• Brett Williams
• Dr Caroline Spencer

Project Contact

Brett Williams