Last month, the Minister of Health released a code of expectations outlining how Te Whatu Ora and other health entities should work with consumers in the planning, design, delivery, and evaluation of health services.

The ‘Code of expectations for health entities’ engagement with consumers and whānau’ will ensure New Zealanders have a say in how health services are run. It signals a commitment for the new health system to strengthen the voice of consumers, whānau and communities. This initiative is part of the Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) Act 2022 and requires health entities to report annually on how the code is being followed.

This code will not replace the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights (Code of Rights).

It will take time to implement this new code of practice. The Consumer and Whānau Voice Team will work alongside the Health Quality & Safety Commission and other entities to support health entities through this process. 

For further questions or support, please contact: consumers@hqsc.govt.nz
Other resources:

• Consumer engagement quality and safety marker
• Implementing the code

The health sector principles incorporate Te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi) principles identified by the Waitangi Tribunal in its Hauora Inquiry. These include the principles of tino rangatiratanga (self-determination), ōritetanga (equity), whakamaru (active protection), kōwhiringa (options) and pātuitanga (partnership).

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