02 March 2026

The way we care for people at the end-of-life matters, which is why the Northern Adelaide Health Network (NALHN) is so proud to be part of an international collaboration exploring how telehealth can better support people who often face the greatest barriers to palliative care.

The Perspectives on Telehealth for Palliative Care for Underserved Populations project brings together Flinders University, the University of Leeds and Māori leaders in Aotearoa New Zealand. The goal is simple: to design telehealth models that honour culture, respect identity and ensure every person, no matter their circumstances, can receive compassionate care when they need it most.

“Telehealth for Palliative Care” allows families caring for loved ones at home, access to specialists and supported, two-way communication during a period of extreme grief and loss,” says Rikki, Nurse Unit Manager Watto Purrunna, NALHN.

Rikki was involved in the project’s engagement and facilitation with NALHN’s Aboriginal Consumer Reference Group, who played a central role in ensuring First Nation’s voices shape its direction. Their leadership reflects a truth we are proud to operate by: great solutions come from listening to the people we serve.

That commitment was clear during the Wonggangga Turtpandi visit on Tuesday 16 September 2025, and again at the Palliative Care Yarning Round Table at Yitpi Yartapuultiku the following day. Elders, community members, clinicians and researchers met to exchange perspectives and help shape a culturally informed approach to palliative care that further supports dignity, connection and better outcomes.

“This project has opened my eyes to the rich knowledge that we, as Aboriginal people, have regarding our cultural care needs related to death and dying,” says Rikki.

Perspectives on Telehealth for Palliative Care for Underserved Populations allows every family, regardless of background, postcode or history, to access end of life care that feels personal, respectful and grounded in who they are.