Our health system is being reshaped with and for the people who use it, and particularly those who have been traditionally underserved, are most disadvantaged or have the greatest need. Listening to and acting on the voices of people, whānau and communities is central to the reforms, and to the delivery of future health services.
The new system is supported by a clear set of expectations and guidelines for how local, regional and national organisations should listen to and involve communities and consumers. This ensures everyone understands the importance of community and whānau representation in determining and designing the services they use.
We will bring together consumer groups into a more accessible national system of consumer forums. These forums will connect Te Whatu Ora - Health New Zealand, Te Aka Whai Ora - Māori Health Authority, and Manatū Hauora (Ministry of Health) to national, regional, and local consumer groups to make sure the right voices are heard, in the right way.
Our national health system will: