Giving patients, families and the community a stronger voice within the health sector is the focus of the newly formed Southern District Health Board Community Health Council.
The nine-member council, which was formed in March, represents the broad range of communities across Dunedin — from young people and Maori to people with mental health issues.
The council was formed with the support of the SDHB, WellSouth PHO and Alliance South.
At that time, SDHB chief executive Chris Fleming said the depth and breadth of knowledge and experience among the council members was ‘‘impressive’’.
‘‘We look forward to working with this dedicated and insightful group to further ensure the views of patients and the community are heard.’’
SDHB Community Health Council chairwoman Sarah Derrett said the council sought to ensure people had a voice in primary and community health services, as well as hospitallevel services.
‘‘We can provide a pathway for people in the community to raise issues and be heard by the DHB,’’ Mrs Derrett said.
Representing both Maori and young people, Takiwai Russell-Camp said people who had a negative experience with the SDHB might be discouraged from seeking help in the future, and it was important to counteract that.
‘‘I want to make it known that you can have positive health experiences as well.’’
As a young person, a major focus for Mrs Russell-Camp was on improving access to the SDHB’s website.
‘‘And being part of the council means that we are able to work with the staff and have input into the [website] redesign,’’ she said.
The Community Health Council met on the first Thursday of every month to discuss any concerns raised by the public and issues identified by members, Mrs Derrett said.
While the council could not handle specific complaints, it had a focus on looking at how processes and communication could be improved within the health system.
To contact the SDHB Community Health Council, email chc@southerndhb. govt.nz, or visit the SDHB website.
