The Health Quality & Safety Commission has welcomed the establishment of the Federation of Primary Health Aotearoa New Zealand.
The board tasked with setting up the Federation has confirmed it will be fully operational by 1 September 2018.
The aim of the Federation will be to provide national leadership on key issues affecting primary health in New Zealand, and to promote primary health as the main focus of the health system.
The Commission has an increasing focus on primary and community care, through both its Whakakotahi quality improvement programme and its aged residential care programme.
Dr Susan Wells, clinical advisor for the Commission’s primary care programme, said the establishment of the Federation was a positive step for primary health in New Zealand.
‘A united voice for primary health will have benefits for the wellbeing of all New Zealanders,’ she said.
‘A high-performing primary health system is necessary to achieve the New Zealand Triple Aim of a better-value, person-centred and effective health system with equitable access for all.’
Dr Wells added there were opportunities for the Commission to work with the Federation and establish strong partnerships in the primary care sector.
'The Federation’s work closely aligns with the Commission’s. We both recognise the importance of primary care and the crucial role it plays within the wider health system.
‘Equity, integration and consumer engagement are central to all of the Commission’s work, and are also reflected in the Federation’s objectives.
‘We are excited to see how the work of the Federation progresses.’