Commissioner Update - June 2018 | Otago Daily Times Online News

From Kathy Grant

This month has involved some important progress, questions and answers.

We have opened the gastroenterology suite at Dunedin Hospital, in time for the roll-out of the bowel screening programme that we know will save lives.

We have asked hard questions of ourselves during the Government Inquiry into Mental Health and Addictions, as we joined in a nationwide effort to better understand what we can do to build a society where wellbeing is promoted, and the right support is available when it’s needed.

And we have learned more about the resources we have to work with through the Budget announcement.

While there are of course still significant challenges within the health system, overall, the Budget was good news for health, directing resources to a number of areas we know are under pressure.

We were particularly heartened by the investments being made in accessing primary care, including the extension of very low cost GP visits to all those with community services cards – this is essential if we are to have a more equitable society where health care is accessible and timely.

This supports our efforts in Southern to shape our health system around patients and their ‘health care homes’ in a primary care setting.

As we head further into winter, with all the cold and bugs that can entail, this is especially important. Our message this winter is: ‘plan to stay well’ and your primary care providers can help with this tremendously.

They are the people who can help those with long term conditions put plans in place to manage their care.

And they are the first port of call for anyone whose illness is becoming worse – before it becomes an emergency.

We have some cold months ahead: stay warm, and take care.

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