STROKE: A PICTURE OF HEALTH DISPARITIES IN NEW ZEALAND.

The experience of Māori stroke survivors and their caregivers is the focus of this paper. A series of qualitative face-to-face interviews was conducted, firstly with Māori who had experienced stroke, and who were part of the 2002/03 Auckland Regional Community Stroke (ARCOS) study; and secondly with their primary caregivers. Experiences of Māori stroke survivors and caregivers are presented under the following themes: experience and knowledge of stroke, experience in hospital and the importance of cultural identity in motivating rehabilitation, the financial impact of stroke on Māori whānau, the stigma and social isolation associated with stroke and health services, and the associated policy issues that emerge from these interviews for Māori. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]