Te Whatu Ora Health NZ has named four new regional directors to improve local decision-making. This change comes after a recent overhaul of its board.
The new directors are:
– Mark Shepherd for Northern, Te Tai Tokerau
– Catherine Cronin for Midland, Te Manawa Taki
– Robyn Shearer for Central, Ikaroa
– Martin Keogh for South Island, Te Waipounamu
Dr. Lester Levy, the new commissioner, announced these roles to reduce excess management and make decisions closer to local communities. He said, “These appointments are a positive step in resetting Health NZ.”
Margie Apa, the chief executive, added that the aim is to empower regions and connect decisions to the communities where care is provided.
Health Minister Dr. Shane Reti praised the changes, stating that previous government reforms had taken away local leadership, leading to too much bureaucracy and disconnection from frontline services. He emphasized that the government’s priority is to improve public health services for New Zealanders.
The new directors will manage budgets and be responsible for regional hospital services and other government health services. They will start their roles from August 19 to September 16.
