Media release 5 September 2011
Newsletter gives snapshot of the West Coast health sector
The West Coast District Health Board this week releases its first Report to the Community, a newsletter giving a
snapshot of what is happening in the health sector on the West Coast.
The Report details some of the ways the West Coast health sector is working to improve its delivery on health priority
areas. The newsletter will be published three times a year and delivered to every household and business on the Coast.
David Meates, West Coast DHB CEO, says communicating what the health sector is doing is a part of successfully
delivering on health priorities.
“We want to better communicate with our community about what we are doing to improve health services. The Report
highlights what we are achieving in partnership with other health providers and community organisations.
“We know people are worried about the continued provision of health services on the Coast. But there are good things
happening and we are leading the country in areas such as telemedicine. ”
“We are committed to protecting the health of Coasters by delivering sustainable services within our community, while
meeting the particular challenges of providing health care to a small population spread over a wide geographical area.
“Our priorities focus on delivering the right care, at the right place, and at the right time, within our budget, and in
collaboration with other health service providers. We aim to fulfil the Government’s initiative of providing Better,
Sooner, More Convenient health services — services that are closer to home and help to make West Coasters healthier.”
Mr Meates said the Report to the Community is also being sent to key people and organisations such as the Minister of
Health, associate health ministers, MPs, and health sector professional groups. It also contains an opportunity for
feedback, through community@westcoastdhb.health.nz or to Community Relations, PO Box 387, Greymouth 7840.
ends
.