Report Exposes Seriously Dysfunctional Leadership

Media Statement For Immediate Release,
Monday 17 March 2008

“Independent Expert Report Exposes Seriously Dysfunctional Leadership at Hawke’s Bay DHB”

“The independent expert report commissioned by the Director-General of Health exposes seriously dysfunctional leadership at the Hawke’s Bay District Health Board,” said Mr Ian Powell, Executive Director of the Association of Salaried Medical Specialists, today.

“The report is impressive for its thoroughness and expertise. It does not pull its punches. It is a damning indictment of poor leadership by the former Hawke’s Bay board. It is the exact opposite of the ‘white wash’ accusation that some have attempted to smear it with.”

“The report reveals an abysmal failure by the former board to manage widespread conflict of interest issue. While Mr Hausmann is rightly criticised, his case is only part of a much wider problem involving the former board chair and other board members, including in pharmacy contracts.”

“The independent report also exposes that a seriously eroded and dysfunctional relationship had existed for some time between the board and senior management which could not be resolved by them alone. External input was required.”

“The report observes that with the Health Minister having dismissed the former board and appointed a commissioner, the opportunity now exists to reduce any negative impact on health service delivery and to deal with relationship and confidence issues. These are wise words that should be respected and followed.”

“It is time to learn from and move on from this leadership fiasco,” concluded Mr Powell.

ENDS

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