Self-Determination in Action: A Scoping Review on Oral Health Training for Indigenous Health Workers Globally.

Abstract

Globally, the systemic marginalisation of Indigenous Peoples has led to significant health disparities rooted in the legacy of colonisation and ongoing settler colonialism.

Objective: This scoping review aimed to collate oral health promotion training programmes tailored for Indigenous Health Workers (IHW), who play a pivotal role in improving health outcomes by bridging mainstream healthcare with Indigenous Communities, globally.

Methods: A systematic, two-step search was conducted across five databases-PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, EMBASE and ProQuest Central-without geographic restrictions. Two independent reviewers screened studies, and additional sources were identified from reference lists. A supplementary search of grey literature was performed in Google Scholar and relevant websites.

Results: Of the 374 eligible articles, 11 programmes fulfilled the inclusion criteria. These programmes covered 10 topic areas, including: oral anatomy, early childhood oral health, and the influence of diet and chronic disease on oral health. Effective programmes were collaboratively developed with Indigenous Communities, aligning closely with Community needs and promoting self-determination. The findings emphasise the importance of involving IHW in oral health initiatives to tackle ongoing oral disease disparities and advance oral health equity for Indigenous populations.

Conclusion: By prioritising Indigenous leadership and cultural knowledge, these programs exemplify avenues for strengthening equitable, culturally centred healthcare for Indigenous Communities globally. There remains a critical need for sustainable investment in IHW oral health training, enabling Indigenous-led initiatives to meaningfully address oral health disparities.