2005 Finalist

A rural, primary health care nurse - community partnership

A community owned health centre providing nurse-led services in a rural area without a resident or visiting GP is providing low-cost health care for those most in need.

Loss of vital services in rural communities during the 1980's led to the Takapau community working together to establish a health centre to provide 'grass roots' health care focused on health education and early intervention in the event of illness or injury.

The health centre is the hub of the community and has played a major role in ensuring the economic viability of Takapau.

An outreach clinic in the neighbouring village of Norsewood was established in 1996.

Across the two health centres there are approximately 5000 contacts made each year via telephone and face to face consultations with the Registered Nurses (Rural Health Nurses).

There are also approximately 1500 attendances at the visiting health provider clinics and health promotional activities such as 'Senior Citizens Wellness' groups, Farm Health and Safety and Well Child expos.

Rural Health Nurse Manager Ingrid Cheer says: "Our focus is on detecting health problems early, health promotion and screening and support, management of chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease and treatment of injuries. We also help residents with access to other health and allied services and work closely with GP practices and other health providers".

An independent analysis and findings of a comprehensive patient satisfaction survey in late 2002 reported: "The Trust and staff of the Takapau and Norsewood and Districts Health Centres can be assured they are providing a high quality and a well regarded service for their communities. This very impressive service should be an example to other rural communities."

Takapau Health Centre
Ingrid Cheer 06 855 8376
Email: jdimcheer@xtra.co.nz or tak.health@xtra.co.nz