Minister opens new Tairawhiti Health Learning Centre

Associate Minister of Health Jo Goodhew today officially opened a new Tairawhiti District Health Board facility to enhance access to training and development opportunities.

The facility, which is called Ko Matakerepo – Tairawhiti Health Learning Centre, will focus on programmes for graduate health professionals and provides a dedicated space for training programmes.

“This facility provides an excellent space to develop new ideas, techniques, and ways of collaboration between health professionals across the district and wider,” says Mrs Goodhew.

“But more than that, the centre will improve Tairawhiti’s ability to attract and retain health professionals. Research shows that students who have positive experiences in rural environments are more likely to stay or return.”

The DHB has transformed an old staff cafeteria area into a stand-alone, secure venue for hosting developmental sessions including workshops, conferences and webcast links with international experts.

The centre will predominantly be used by participants in the Rural Immersion Training Programme.

“The health of people living in rural and isolated parts of the country is a priority for this Government. Not only does this programme require universities to work collaboratively with DHBs and health agencies, it ensures that areas with high rural populations can attract trainee students,” says Mrs Goodhew.

“We know that the population of Tairawhiti faces complex health problems including diabetes and obesity therefore it’s vital this region can recruit new graduates. Feedback from participants in this year’s programme is very positive, with many reluctant to leave, so this is welcome news.”