Increased instances of racism in the wake of COVID-19 might be affecting regional healthcare outcomes, according to a project instigated by researchers at Charles Sturt University.
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"We know that racism makes people sick and that is very under-reported," said researcher Professor Julian Grant.
"People who are culturally and linguistically different from mainstream white Australia [often] can't access health services."
Now in its infancy, the study will focus on the experiences of groups in Wagga, Griffith, Young and Albury.
With expectations to be completed by December, the project will be led by Professor Grant and Dr Jessica Biles.
"We know in previous pandemics around the world, racism has increased and it's prevented people from accessing healthcare in a timely manner," Professor Grant said.
"I can only bare witness to [racism], I am a white woman but as a white woman, I can help other white people shine a light on it."
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The study is seeking to identify overt racism, as well as what Dr Biles described as the more insidious forms of "everyday racism", which often goes unreported.
"The methods we'll use will hopefully bring to light and unearth the micro-aggressions which are traumatic," Dr Biles said.
"They are violent but not violent in the way mainstream Australia sees violence, as in something physical."
The researchers have been further aided by a $30,000 funding grant from the university, and will be assisted by the Multicultural Council of Wagga in identifying case studies.
Once completed, the researchers hope to use the findings to develop effective resources to combat racism in regional healthcare.
While acknowledging that "everyone in regional areas has trouble accessing healthcare", Professor Grant said the problem will often compound for those who are members of culturally diverse groups.
"Because of racist experiences people are less likely to access preventative healthcare, for example, and by the time they do seek medical attention, what could be easily treated has become a big problem," Professor Grant said.