Patient and public involvement
The ‘D-Kids’ trial was built on respectful engagement and longstanding relationships with Australian First Nations families, hospitals and healthcare centres. Prior to study conduct, we sought the views of First Nations community councils and parents regarding the trial intervention and design acceptability. Our small prestudy survey of local families indicated a willingness to participate in such a study (24/25, 96%). Formal approval for this RCT was received from all communities involved and we have implemented a First Nations Reference Group model of governance. Importantly, the study team includes First Nations investigators, clinicians, health practitioners and trainees.