"If you've got a single structure it is difficult disagreeing with yourself - I find that with my own role across Otago and Southland."
Board member Dr Malcolm Macpherson asked if the transitional board for the proposed PHO would be "cast out" to do its work and only accountable when it came back to the board and if that would be in the board's best interests.
Mr Rousseau said the transition board could not be dominated by the board, the providers or the community.
All three groups had to work together to ensure the best outcome.
Member Helen Algar said that process of negotiation among the members of the transitional board was absolutely critical.
She was grateful to see the suggested governance structure of the PHO included more than just general practitioners.
Member Peter Barron said it was clear, when looking at the amount of money received by PHOs across the region, there were "mind-blowing" differences between the amounts going to various populations.
The board needed to focus on what it needed to achieve under the primary health care strategy, he said.
