As a District Health Board Member since 2008, I am especially aware of the competing pressures for the health budget here in the Tairawhiti district. The District Health Board is responsible for delivering effective and efficient health services to our community; be that primary healthcare and GP services, secondary care at Gisborne Hospital, specialist services at regional hospitals or elder care here in our district.

To provide these services in a manner that is both cost effective and relevant to the unqiue health needs of our district is challenging. The tensions between often competing demands for available health funding requires responsible governance from the Board and the much appreciated skill and dedication of the health workforce to ensure that the health services you may need are provided in a timely and appropriate manner.

My background in local government and more latterly in private practice, as a Resource Management and Planning Consultant, has enabled me to quickly get to grips with the role of a Health Board member and to contribute specifically in those areas where my personal and professional skills can be focused.  Having experience as a Member and former Chairman of the East Coast Hawkes Bay Conservation Board has been invaluable in enabling me to appreciate the specialised governance role required of Health Board members.

I believe that the Tairawhiti District Health Board must continue to adapt its service delivery to reflect the changing health needs of our community and the funding pressures we face.

The Board must also continue to advocate for health services in our community that remain relevant, accessible and affordable.

Top 5 Issues

Personal Profile

Contact me at:

bwt@tpa.co.nz

or

021 529 028