Members of the community have been given more time to provide feedback about proposals designed to enhance Hurunui health services.

In response to initial feedback, the Hurunui Health Services Development Group agreed last week that the feedback period should be extended until Wednesday 28 February 2018, with proposals summarised in a shorter, clearer format.

Marie Black, Chair of the group, thanked the community for the feedback already submitted. “We’ve had nearly 80 submissions since we commenced health provider and community engagement in October, and already clear themes are emerging,” she said.

“But despite efforts to be clear and transparent some misunderstandings remain, and they’re overshadowing the aim of this process – to ensure our community has access to the best possible, sustainable, health services.”

Myth v fact

Marie continued: “One myth coming through quite strongly is the idea that a ‘health hub’ is proposed to be built in Amberley and that could jeopardise the future of Waikari Hospital. This isn’t true.

“Firstly there is no proposal to build a new facility or “hub” in Amberley but rather the proposal is to provide a 24-hour observation service within the Hurunui utilising an existing facility where there is 24 hour nursing and medical cover, so this would provide an option for patients to be observed and cared for by medical staff around the clock, closer to home.

Further, Carolyn Gullery, General Manager for Canterbury District Health Board’s Planning and Funding team reassured the public at meetings in Waikari and Amberley in December that “Canterbury DHB has not taken any decision on the future of Waikari Hospital, nor will it, without thorough and appropriate consultation with the staff and the Hurunui community.

“There is no plan to commence consultation in the next year. This would be an entirely separate process managed by Canterbury DHB.”

Feedback themes

Common themes from feedback the Hurunui Health Services Group has received so far include:

• the need for a district wide after-hour service
• access to pre and post-natal care;
• access to mental health services;
• appropriate services for young people;
• the provision of ambulance services;
• keeping skilled doctors and nurses in our area;
• improve how we use Waikari Hospital, in particular, investigate using it as the site for the proposed observation service.

Marie added: “We know feedback is crucial to getting this model right and we want to hear as many voices as possible. We encourage the community to take a good look over the proposals, talk to a member of the group if you’re unclear about what it means for you, and take the time to provide your feedback.

“Once the extended feedback period closes on the 28 February, the group will consider all the feedback and make their recommendations to the Canterbury Clinical Network Alliance Leadership Team which includes the Canterbury District Health Board (CDHB) as the funder”

A summary of the proposals will be delivered to homes across the Hurunui early in February, with extras made available in local medical centres. The feedback period closes Wednesday 28 February 2018.