Decolonising outcome measurement: a systematic review of health and wellbeing measures for Māori

Alter Native title capitalised with a green koru in the background with two korus intertwined in the middle coming from the sides, the left one is white turned up and the right one is less opaque turned down

12 Jun 2025

Sandham et al.

The objective of the study is to conduct a systematic review and methodological quality appraisal on studies reporting the development of health and wellbeing outcome measures for Māori (Indigenous people of New Zealand), identify common features and processes, and critically appraise the measures using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN). Key databases were searched using key terms in May 2022 without date limiters. English or Māori language publications were included if they reported Māori health and wellbeing outcome measure development. Studies were then appraised using the COSMIN. Seven publications developed outcome measures and seven reported the validation of the measures. All studies were Inadequate when appraised using the COSMIN so measurement properties were not appraised. This study highlights the value of integrating Indigenous and western research methods to yield culturally relevant outcome measures, promoting equity in health and wellbeing assessment for Māori.

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Key issues

HEALTH SERVICES AND SYSTEMS

Covering developments in the provision, funding and organisation of health care services.

EQUITY

Exploring the impacts of the health system on minorities within the population, notably including Māori, Pacifica, Asians and LGBTQI.

DRUGS, DEVICE AND DIAGNOSTICS

Covering prescription medicines and medical devices.

PUBLIC HEALTH

Focusing on efforts to promote health and prevent disease through social and economic interventions.

DIGITAL HEALTH

Exploring the potential digital transformation to provide a more connected and accessible health system.

TE TIRITI

Monitoring how the health reforms and the performance of the health sector uphold Te Tiriti obligations.