Table 1 Model design principles and rationale

Family-focused and relationship-centred

The patient is embedded in his or her family unit, recognising their life-course history and understanding their socio-environmental practices inherent in rural life. The relationship with the patient and the family is considered with the same importance, if not greater, than the disease conditions and a means to enhancing the quality-of-care experience.

Political subjects

Patients are regarded as competent social actors with existing capacities, capabilities and knowledge, while identifying opportunities to enhance their personal and family resources.

Health system co-ordination and collaboration

Co-ordination and collaboration between various health service and non-health service stakeholders are promoted in order to reduce administrative and geographic barriers, enhance access to health and enhance appropriateness of services based on need.

Preventative and curative care

Continuity in primary, secondary and tertiary care through integral health routes, while also focusing on preventative care.

Intercultural and Integrated Care

A holistic perspective on health and healing that considers culturally appropriate approaches and with integrated strategies from indigenous and natural medicine.