In a nutshell
The National Indigenous Kidney Transplantation Taskforce (NIKTT) was established to improve access to life-saving kidney transplants for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Through advocacy, policy development, and collaborative action, the NIKTT works to bridge the gap in kidney health outcomes and ensure equitable access to transplantation services.
NIKTT recommendations
Established in 2019, the National Indigenous Kidney Transplantation Taskforce was formed to address the inequities in kidney transplantation access for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. From its extensive work, the NIKTT developed the following three key actions and associated recommendations, reflecting consumer, Community, and clinical priorities:
01.
Immediate improvements to access and services
02.
Ongoing Secretariat to monitor and progress transplantation equity
03.
Additional research projects to address drivers of inequity
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Outreach Assessment Clinics: Sustainable funding for multidisciplinary clinics in rural and remote locations, including transplant coordinators and educational sessions
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Indigenous Reference Groups (IRGs): Establishment and support of IRGs at all transplant hospitals, led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients and health workers
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Renal Health Workforce: Development and resourcing of renal health roles (navigators, nurses, physicians) embedded within renal and transplant units.
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Monitoring Progress: Use ANZDATA to track improvements in waitlisting, transplantation, and post-transplant outcomes, including annual scorecards for renal units
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Maintaining Focus: A coordinated network with annual gatherings, consistent community engagement, and online resource portals
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Exploring Non-Kidney Organ Transplantation: Support pathways for non-kidney organ transplantation access in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations.
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Addressing Barriers: Research and implement solutions for additional barriers such as obesity, treatment uptake, and reversible health issues in rural and remote regions
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Designing Initiatives Across the Transplantation Pathway: Investigate solutions for post-transplant care, paediatric transplantation, culturally tailored education, and organ donation.