September 09, 2015
Waka hauora to transform Maori health outcomes
Tairawhiti District Health Board has given itself 90 days to transform itself into a health service that is capable of improving Maori health outcomes on the East Coast.
Waka Hauora project leader Mark Kopua says on average Maori on the coast is five years die five years younger than non-Maori.
He says the term 'WAKA' serves as a handy acronym for the main principles behind the project.
"Whakarangatira or to enrich or work in a mode of excellence. Awhi which is to support patients and our service users. Kotahitanga which is for us to be able to work together alongside our partners out in the community and Aroha which is to show compassion which is generally why a lot of people who come into the hospital are hoping that they are going to receive" he says.
Mark Kopua says the shift in direction is generating new energy in the community, and over the next few months the DHB will work with iwi, health providers, schools and other community groups to design the services they want.
FOR THE FULL INTERVIEW WITH MARK KOPUA CLICK ON THE LINK
https://secure.zeald.com/uma/play_podcast/x_podlink/MzIxMTc=/
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