Abstract:

Introduction:
Social- economic, cultural and educational challenges may deter Indigenous students from achieving post-secondary success in Health and Paramedic studies. Whilst the Health profession supports Indigenous students throughout various programs, universities could do more to assist in the student recruitment, retention and transition into Health and Paramedic post-secondary education.

Method:
An exploratory multi-case study analysis of Australia, New Zealand and Canadian Indigenous Health and Paramedic students and programs were analyzed.

Results:
The majority of Indigenous students entering post-secondary Health studies are female, resulting in issues of childcare, in addition to financial restraints, transportation concerns and the lack of mentors and role models are required to aid transition.

With the rising demand for health workers in rural and remote setting, it is essential that research regarding curriculum design and tertiary support for Indigenous Health students continue to expand, contributing to a better understanding and possibly new approaches to Indigenous education.

Post-secondary institutions have become more mindful of the unique needs of Indigenous students; more institutions have incorporated culturally sensitive curriculum, provided support services and attempted to increase the number of Indigenous instructors. However, gaps still exist in health-care education. Whilst there is ample research regarding Indigenous higher education and barriers in which universities must overcome to ensure Indigenous student success, research in recruitment/enrolment and retention of Indigenous Health students is lacking.

Conclusion:
The extant research in the recruitment, retention and transition of Indigenous Health or Paramedic students is limited. More analysis of international tertiary models is required, which could prove beneficial and aid in enabling success of Indigenous Health and Paramedic students.

Keywords:

Academic success, Indigenous students, Aboriginal, First Nation, Maori, higher education, Indigenous student retention, Indigenous people.