Future Medical Leaders Gather in Wellington

PRESS RELEASE

Future Medical Leaders Gather in Wellington
Students develop influential initiative

The future leaders of the medical profession will meet in Wellington later this week.

Over 150 medical students from around the country will participate in the 2007 Medical Leadership Development Seminar – ‘A 2020 Vision’ (MLDS) from July 20-22. The seminar will challenge tomorrow’s medical leaders to consider the various ways health issues can be addressed.

“The New Zealand Medical Students’ Association (NZMSA) believes that students, as future health sector leaders, have the ability to provide the innovative solutions and direction needed to tackle the challenges in our health system,” says NZMSA President Mr Nick Fancourt.

The seminar will focus on the impact of health and leadership both in New Zealand and internationally. A key element of the conference will be addressing the role of the wider community in creating a healthy nation. The students will be addressed by a wide range of medical and humanitarian figures, including Children’s Commissioner Dr Cindy Kiro, PHARMAC CEO Mr Matthew Brougham and Chair of the Medical Council of New Zealand Prof John Campbell.

“We hope that MLDS will provide the doctors of tomorrow with an insight into the complexities of the health challenges facing our country. In order to invest in the healthcare of tomorrow it is vitally important to foster an interest in leadership amongst the medical students of today,” says MLDS convener Mr Alistair Escott.

"The New Zealand Medical Association believes it's vital to encourage leadership among today's medical students. The future of our profession, and of the New Zealand health system will soon depend on their ability to lead health through the 21st century. The NZMA is pleased to be contributing to this important development seminar,” said Dr Peter Foley, NZMA Chairman.

The weekend includes a formal dinner, addressed by acclaimed poet Dr Glenn Colquhoun. The official opening will be hosted by the Hon Pete Hodgson, Minister of Health, at Parliament.

“This is undoubtedly one of the most important events in raising awareness of health issues and developing the future leaders of this country,” says Mr Fancourt.

ENDS

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