Health delivery moves closer to integrated model

THERE has been a lot of work over past months to develop a healthcare model for the northern Ruapehu district that is both integrated and sustainable.

This resulted in the establishment of a highly experienced and influential local governance group to work closely with Waikato DHB to shape the future structure of health delivery in the area.

Led by Ruapehu Mayor Sue Morris, it includes Dr Paul Malpass; Kokiri Trust chief executive Christine Brears; Taumarunui Community Health Forum chair Jean Botting; Clayton and Hayes Pharmacy’s Margie Clayton; Jeremy Stubbs representing St John, Tuwharetoa Trust Board’s Kim Gosman, Graeme Cosford, Ruapehu District Council and Piki Taiaroa, Whanganui Maori River Trust Board.

Pictured back row, l-r: Graeme Cosford, Jeremy Stubbs, Jan Adams, Margie Clayton, Paul Malpass, Don Cameron.

Front row, l-r: Kim Gosman, Christine Brears, Isabel Roderick. Absent: Piki Taiaroa, Sue Morris and Jean Botting.

Each person brings experience and skills to the group.

Health Waikato chief operating officer Jan Adams leads the Waikato DHB response with group manager Rural and Community Services, Jill Dibble, Taumarunui Hospital and family health team manager Joanne Knight and charge nurse manager Penny Neal also playing a role.

There was a three-day “rapid improvement workshop” held earlier in the year, attended by many people from a range of health service providers, local residents and the Ruapehu District Council.

The main question posed was: “What actions do we need to take to ensure sustainability of our rural services?”

It was agreed that the focus should be on developing a comprehensive local health plan, which incorporates:
• Recruitment and retention of key health professionals.
• Taking advantage of technology.
• Learning from other rural areas in New Zealand to apply to the development of a sustainable model.
• Focusing on primary care and prevention using the principles of Whanau Ora (well being of people).

Mrs Brears said whanau ora would address the social determinants of health and health outcomes for Maori and high need, vulnerable populations.

“The focus on health information, prevention, individual well-being and secondary care is of key importance. This links with other social agencies because it is only 20 per cent of the need in these communities.”

Ruapehu Mayor Sue Morris, pictured, welcomed the latest health initiative, saying that it was encouraging Waikato DHB recognised the importance of resolving Taumarunui and the northern Ruapehu district’s healthcare issues.

“Waikato DHB stated their commitment to providing enhanced health services for the area and together we look forward to identifying the best possible outcome for providing quality healthcare services for our people,” she said.