Our aim is to achieve the best possible health status for our population, working within accepted policy settings and available resources.
An important element is to reduce health inequalities within our area by targeting those with complex needs, and those with disabilities and chronic illness.
At a glance
- West Coast PHO oversees the delivery of primary care services to nearly 31,000 people.
- Services are delivered through 8 member practices.
- Our enrolled population has widely varying health needs. This is reflected in the range of health programmes we offer.
- The PHO is a not-for-profit organisation. Funding comes primarily from the West Coast District Health Board on a capitation basis according to the size of our enrolled population.
- A 9 strong Board of Trustees provides strategic direction and oversight. The Board has been chosen to fairly represent our populations diverse mix of age, gender and ethnicity.
- We enjoy a collaborative approach with other PHOs in the South Island, and have partnered with a number of PHOs to provide additional programmes to benefit our enrolled populations.
PHO Performance Programme
All West Coast practices participate in the national performance management programme which measures performance against key indicators such as pharmacy scripts written and cost, laboratory referrals, smoking cessation rates, etc. You can learn more about this at the Ministry of Health website.
Workforce Retention
The West Coast, like many other rural areas, has challenges in recruitment and retention of health professionals. The PHO provides the practices with additional funding to fill rosters and pay additional costs such as providing a car, accommodation, etc. If you want to live on the wonderful West Coast and work in the primary health field please contact Helen Reriti, Clinical Manager, West Coast PHO on 03-768 6182.
Professional and Practice Development
The PHO professional development programme is Continuing Medical Education approved and co-ordinated by Dr Anna Dyzel with the PHO. If you are a health professional and interested in attending training or a presentation please email Amy Hamilton or Sue-Ann Griffiths for further details.