Media Release
11 June 2003
Ministry of Health announces new Principal Medical Advisor
Director-General of Health Dr Karen Poutasi said today she was delighted to announce the appointment of Dr David Galler
to the position of Principal Medical Advisor (PMA).
Dr Galler is currently Clinical Director Acute Care at Auckland's Middlemore Hospital. He has worked as a specialist in
intensive care at Middlemore Hospital for 11 years, and will continue there on a part-time basis. In his role as PMA, he
will be on part-time secondment from the Counties Manukau District Health Board (CMDHB).
Health Minister Annette King also welcomed the appointment today, saying she believed Dr Galler possessed the expertise,
experience and necessary independence to make a strong contribution to the position.
Stephen McKernan, CMDHB Chief Executive, said he fully supported Dr Galler in his new role with the Ministry.
Dr Poutasi described the PMA as a key link between the Ministry and the sector.
``As such, Dr Galler will provide important clinical advice and information to me, as the Director-General of Health,
and the Minister of Health,'' Dr Poutasi said.
``This will help shape and maintain ongoing relationships between the Ministry and the wider health and disability
sector.''
Dr Galler will take up his appointment shortly.
ENDS