Supplied: Dr Kerry Hall
Dr Kerry Hall is a proud descendant of the Kuku Thaypan, Kuku Warra and Lama Lama Peoples from Cape York Peninsula. She is currently Interim Lead (Learning and Teaching) with Office of Deputy Vice Chancellor, Indigenous. Notably, Kerry was the first hospital-trained Aboriginal enrolled nurse to receive a PhD.
We asked Kerry about her current research projects and her advice for novice researchers.
What path led you to becoming a researcher?
‘witnessing the positive impact that research can have ignited a spark that today is still burning’
My journey into research started in 2012 when I applied for a research assistant role on a project with very specific selection criteria. The criteria: the applicant must be an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander health professional with phlebotomy skills in children. I hold dual Ahpra registration as an enrolled nurse and as an Aboriginal Health Practitioner, and am also a qualified phlebotomy technician (that is, a medical professional who is trained to perform blood draws on children and adults).
A couple of months into the role, I was asked if I wanted to study. I said I was too old, but subtle persuasion from my supervisor found me applying for a Master of Philosophy. This posed a challenge since I don’t have an undergraduate degree; I am a hospital-trained enrolled nurse.
I applied regardless and was accepted on experience and merit. Working on that project with community partners and families, and witnessing the positive impact that research can have, ignited a spark that today is still burning.
My doctoral research examined the incidence, predictors and outcomes of acute respiratory illness in urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children aged less than five years in the community.
Can you tell us a bit about the projects you are currently working on?
My research interests are varied, and include primary health care access, community engagement, capacity building, health inequity with a particular interest in cultural safety and culturally safe care. These broad interests allow me to collaborate with diverse research teams and communities, with all research I’m involved in using Indigenous research methodologies.
Two projects that I’m currently working on are:
- Activating pharmacists to reduce the frequency of medication-related problems (ACTMed). Medicines are the most common type of healthcare intervention. While their safe use offers significant benefits, inappropriate use can cause harm. This project aims to use information technology and financial incentives to encourage pharmacists to collaborate more closely with general practitioners. The goal is to reduce the risk of harm, improve patient care experiences, streamline workflows, and enhance the efficiency of medical care.
- Cultural adaptation of the Growin’ Up Healthy Jarjums project. This project explored engagement with and acceptability of an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders mums and bubs mHealth intervention.
Who has inspired you?
My mother has always been my greatest source of inspiration. During my senior year of high school, she went through a tough health journey. Witnessing her experiences with certain aspects of the healthcare system sparked my desire to pursue a career in nursing.
Additionally, my PhD supervisors played a crucial role in inspiring my research interests. They showed me the importance of conducting health research in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities through collaboration and prioritising community voices and perspectives. Their dedication to ethical research has shaped my career and deepened my interest in ethics within the research field.
Do you have any advice for researchers just starting out?
‘seek out fields or projects that truly spark your enthusiasm and curiosity’
If you’re embarking on your research journey, whether pursuing a PhD or launching a research career, I encourage you to seek out fields or projects that truly spark your enthusiasm and curiosity. Look for mentors who can guide you through the challenges, as the path of research can be quite unpredictable. Collaborating with a variety of researchers can enrich your experience and help you create a supportive community, paving the way for greater achievements. In the end, it will be your passion and determination that will help you navigate the difficult moments.
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