MEDIA
STATEMENT
From the Chief Executive, Karen Thomas
SUNDAY, MAY 29
Trust has been earned over many years
One of the constants through the many health reforms by successive governments over the last 15 years is that patients
continue to trust their GPs.
The importance of this group of medical specialists cannot be over-emphasised for they are the key to new approaches
focused on improving the health of all New Zealanders through investment in primary healthcare. If more illness is
prevented, and illness that exists is reduced in severity by earlier intervention, then everyone gains – patients and
taxpayers alike.
GPs know their business and the ‘Value of General Practice: 2005’ is an articulation of principles and actions that are
required to ensure that New Zealanders continue on the path towards better health.
In his March 2002 report, Purchasing Primary Health Care Provided In General Practice, the Auditor General stated as
part of his overall conclusions that
“In our view, the health sector would benefit from a period of stability to allow effective purchasing capability for
primary health care to develop, and to make progress to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of primary health care
service delivery. The fact that service provision has continued to function as well as it has reflects, to a large
degree, the goodwill and tenacity of health professionals working in the primary health care sector.”
The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners believes the Auditor General’s comment remains valid today.
Consistent and effective leadership is vital as the primary care sector continues to move forward, meeting and
overcoming obstacles.
The ‘Value of General Practice: 2005’ is enclosed.
Chief Executive