The community is being invited to find out more about a series of proposals designed to enhance existing health services in the area.

The proposals, collectively called a Model of Care, have been designed by the Oxford and Surrounding area Health Service Development Group (OSHSDG). The group includes members of the local community, health providers including hospital, medical centre, district nurses, pharmacy, ambulance, PHO, aged residential care, local non-government organisations, the police and council.

Judith Millar, local GP, has been part of the group since its formation in 2016. She said: “We looked at how local people access existing health services and used that as a basis for where we thought enhancements could be made to ensure our community can access health services locally in a way that’s accessible.

“We came to ten key areas of focus, the proposals, which include a 24-hour observation and monitoring service; technology to support Telehealth (consultations/assessments delivered via video); and a strong focus on improving transport across the region.”

Members of the community are being encouraged to attend one of four information sessions hosted by the group to find out more and have questions answered. The sessions are:

• Friday 7 September, 11am-12noon, Oxford Town Hall
• Tuesday 11 September, 7.30-8.30pm, Cust Community Hall
• Wednesday 12 September, 7.30-8.30pm, Oxford Town Hall
• Thursday 20 September, 7.30-8.30pm, West Eyreton Hall

A flyer summarising the proposals will be delivered to homes across Oxford and the surrounding areas over the next week with extra copies available at the hospital, medical centre, pharmacy and council building.

A video featuring members of the group explaining the proposals in more detail is available to view via the CCN website, along with an electronic copy of the flyer.

Kevin Felstead, Deputy Mayor of Waimakariri District Council and the group’s chair, said: “We encourage the community to take a good look over the proposals and come along and talk to us and ask any questions at one of the information sessions. We want to hear what our community thinks of these proposals – if they are supportive or have additional suggestions. The community’s feedback is crucial to making sure the model is right for us all.”

Feedback closes Sunday 30 September 2018.