The Southern District Health Board (SDHB) is seeking Southlanders feedback on the future of health care in the south, ahead of its handover on July 1st to Health New Zealand and the Māori Health Authority.

“Southerners know the needs of our community best, so it’s very important we continue to get their feedback on our health care system,” said SDHB Chief Executive Chris Fleming. 

The organisation has already consulted with over 80+ stakeholders from across the community to develop its guiding principles. 

“This represents our pathway forward, which includes our top guiding principles – focusing on whānau and patient-centred care, a more central leadership role for Māori, becoming a part of Health NZ but continuing to do what we do, and building and fostering connections around the motu,” Fleming said. 

“We hope the feedback from our community will help bolster the importance of these principles, along with highlighting the need for an equitable, well-connected, and integrated health system.”

“We know it’s been an incredibly challenging time for the community and our health sector over the last few years,” Fleming said.

“Now is the time to give us your feedback so we can pass the baton to Health New Zealand, knowing our community has had a voice in the future of Southern health.” 

CLICK HERE to complete the short survey.