NZ Doctor | Rata Aotearoa
Hauora Taiwhenua has presented a 10-point action plan to Ministers following last week’s pivotal Rural Māori Health Summit in Wellington. Co-hosted with our Te Tiriti partners, Te Rōpū Ārahi, the Summit brought together politicians, health officials and key stakeholders to address the urgent challenges in rural Māori healthcare.
Minister Matt Doocey acknowledged the concerns raised and outlined the work being done by Health New Zealand’s rural team, including pilot programs and plans for a Rural Health Roadshow. Dr Grant Davidson responded with a direct challenge: “We will give you 10 rural communities to visit and 10 outcomes we expect Health New Zealand to achieve over the next eighteen months.”
Minister for Rural Communities, Hon. Mark Patterson, reinforced the importance of supporting frontline healthcare professionals, stating that the “postcode lottery” in healthcare access is unacceptable. Dr. Grant Davidson of Hauora Taiwhenua emphasised that funding and resources must be allocated based on the high needs of rural Māori communities, ensuring equity in healthcare access and outcomes.
