Commission acknowledges skill and dedication of health professionals responding to terror attack

He taonga te aroha ki ngā tangata katoa.

Love towards all people is a precious gift.

The Health Quality & Safety Commission would like to acknowledge the skill and dedication of health professionals in Canterbury and around the country who responded so swiftly, compassionately and professionally to the tragic events in Christchurch on Friday afternoon.

The Commission’s board chair, Professor Alan Merry, says while the terror attack created conditions that are completely outside normal expectations for health care services, teams were prepared and responded swiftly and expertly.

'Doctors, nurses and other health professionals offered frontline clinical assistance. Clinicians, and those who support them, demonstrated teamwork and worked in a coordinated, collaborative way to deliver the care needed, and continue to do so.

'Our thoughts are with those health professionals, the residents of Christchurch, the Muslim community, and all whānau and friends affected by this terrible event.'

Public advice for dealing with distress and concern following the Christchurch tragedy, as well as advice for helping children to cope is available here.