"We are Asian people, you know": Perspectives and experiences of New Zealand Asian in centre haemodialysis patients.

Introduction New Zealand's Asian population is growing and diverse. Kidney failure is a major health burden and 10% of dialysis population is identified as Asian ethnicity. There is currently no information about their experience on haemodialysis. This study aimed to understand their perspectives in order to help improve dialysis experience. Methods Thirteen Asian haemodialysis patients were recruited and took part in semi-structured interviews in Counties Manukau Health. All interviews were recorded, transcribed and reviewed. Themes were developed based on common experiences. Findings Four key themes emerged from the data -- the impact of illness, how culture and language are integral to health, the importance of family, and personal relationships with health professionals. Some experiences were associated with being on dialysis and their overall health status and the major time commitment associated with dialysis visits. Others were related more specifically to cultural factors, including reliance on support from extended family, and access to familiar food. Language barriers were also an important factor, especially for the participants living in aged care facilities. All the participants highly valued the input from dietitians, doctors and staff from dialysis units. Discussion Asian dialysis patients face a range of challenges on dialysis. Particular challenges included language difficulties and accessing cultural support. Developing an increasingly culturally and linguistically diverse workforce could lead to improved care of this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]