Design Of New Era Ministry Of Health Finalised

Many Ministry of Health and Health Funding Authority managers will have to apply for new positions in the restructured ministry as it regroups to take on the role and responsibilities of the HFA.

Director-General of Health Karen Poutasi said staff in both agencies were today briefed on the final shape of the new-look Ministry, decided after consulting with staff on proposals outlined last month.

"The new structure reflects the Government's objectives in health and disability, and submissions from a large number of staff already working in the two agencies. We believe the design announced today captures the the best of the old, allows for new ways of working and positions us well for the future."

Managers in both agencies will now be invited to apply for any "new" positions. While there are currently more managers than new positions Dr Poutasi said she expects very few redundancies.

"Some of those who don't get jobs in this round will have the opportunity of applying for further positions later. We have also allowed for a transitional "bulge" as we expect a number of people to move to District Health Boards once they are set up. Overall we have been concerned to retain as much health and disability sector knowledge and expertise as possible."

Today's announcement completes the design process for the new Ministry. Managers' jobs will now be advertised for existing staff in the two agencies with appointments likely to be announced at the end of June.

Although the new structure is effective from July 1 staff will notice few differences in the short term. The organisation will continue to operate from two sites with the HFA fulfilling its current role until new legislation is passed, expected to be in November.

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