Media release 22 May 2018
Chief Executive Memo Musa congratulates Dr Ashley Bloomfield on his appointment to the Director-General of Health. NZNO
is anticipates that his leadership, skill and knowledge will be good for the health sector and for tackling issues
facing nursing including nursing workforce development.
“The increasing pressures on the health sector and an aging and growing population demand resilient and clear
leadership. Dr Bloomfield brings plenty of experience as a former district health board chief executive, and having
previously worked in senior roles in the Ministry of Health, public health and primary care.
“Dr Bloomfield has many big ticket items to deliver on along with collaborating with health sector leaders, and creating
a systematic approach to improving equity and funding of health services in particular primary health care alongside the
review and delivery of mental health care.
“This primary health care work includes a sector wide approach to increase accessibility and reduce disparity in health
outcomes particularly for Māori and low income families. These community, family and whānau focused health matters are
crucial areas to be addressed in order for a fairer and more equitable society to be achieved.
“We look forward to working with Dr Bloomfield towards progressing the needs of the nursing workforce and presenting the
new NZNO Strategy for Nursing to him in due course,” Memo Musa said.
ENDs.