Interest in health of older people acknowledged

MEDIA RELEASE

10 May 2006

Shared interest in improving the health of older people formally acknowledged

In a New Zealand first, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Hawke’s Bay District Health Board (DHB) and Hastings and District Grey Power Association will be signed during HBDHB’s May Board meeting.

DHB Chair, Kevin Atkinson, said it was important for the DHB to work alongside groups such as Grey Power who shared the DHB’s interest in the delivery of health services to meet the healthcare needs of older people in Hawke’s Bay and the surrounding districts.

“We have enjoyed a very professional relationship with the Hastings and District Grey Power for a number of years with both organisations meeting regularly and corresponding on areas of joint interest. Agreeing an MoU enables us to formally acknowledge the principles which underpin the relationship.”

The MoU confirms the roles and responsibilities of both parties to co-operate, communicate and share information on matters pertaining to the health of older people living in Hawke’s Bay.

President Hastings and District Grey Power, Ted Duffill says “We are looking forward to working alongside the DHB in this, a New Zealand first. The MoU signals is a big step forward in having community involved in tackling some of the important issues facing health. We will be actively working with the DHB to ensure all people in Hawke’s Bay have access to quality healthcare irrespective of income or location.”

ENDS

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