Mayor picked to head healthcare federation
A group that plans to speak for the community health sector has chosen a new leader.
Rotorua Mayor Steve Chadwick – a qualified midwife – has been announced as chair-elect of the new Federation of Primary Health Aotearoa New Zealand.
The group’s formal launch took place in the Grand Hall of Parliament on Thursday, before an audience of more than 150 ministers, MPs and health leaders, a statement from the federation said.
It’s a significant and bold health initiative, said Chadwick, who is also a former associate minister of health. ‘‘It is very affirming that such a diverse group of valued health professionals have taken this step.
‘‘Nothing stays the same and we need to strategically plan and work together on how we face the big health issues ... I have a pragmatic approach that was enabled by leaders such as Dame Annette King, based on experience, research and simply finding new ways of working that reduce inequality and make access to healthcare easier.’’
Primary health care is defined by the Ministry of Health as professional care delivered in the community – covering clinicians such as general practitioners (GPs), practice nurses and pharmacists.
The Federation of Primary Health was formed after some 70 Kiwi healthcare leaders – from sectors including pharmacy, midwifery, and non-government agencies – attended a Wellington summit in February. A statement from the time says its goals were expected to include being a voice for the sector’s solutions and innovations, becoming a ‘‘go to’’ for primary
‘‘It is very affirming that such a diverse group of valued health professionals have taken this step.’’ Rotorua Mayor Steve Chadwick
healthcare advice and expert opinion, as well as advocating for ways of looking after patients that were best for both people and the system.
Health Minister Dr David Clark said the launch was significant as primary care was the foundation of the country’s health system. ‘‘This forum will allow all voices in the health system to be heard. I expect the federation will be an important contributor as I develop this Government’s vision for collaborative, multidisciplinary primary health care in New Zealand.’’
Former Labour deputy leader Dame Annette King was the establishment chairwoman of the federation but will be succeeded by Chadwick, subject to ratification. ‘‘Steve is a former associate minister of health, who has had a major input into children’s health and tobacco policy,’’ she said at the launch.