Another GPNZ Chair To Health NZ Board As Dr Bryan Betty Appointed

General Practice New Zealand (GPNZ) welcomes the appointment of current Chair, Dr Bryan Betty, to the board of Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora, as announced by Health Minister Simeon Brown today.

GPNZ Chief Executive Maura Thompson said while the appointment will mean a change in leadership for the organisation, it is a strong outcome for the health system.

"Bryan's appointment is well deserved. While he will be missed by GPNZ and our members, we know primary care will be well represented at the governance level at a critical time for the system.

"GPNZ has built its reputation as a trusted voice for primary care, with a strong system view and a clear focus on population health. It is a credit to the organisation, and the work of our members, that our leaders continue to be recognised for their experience and contribution at a national level."

Dr Betty has been Chair of GPNZ since 2023, following the departure of former Chair, Dr Jeff Lowe, who was also appointed to the Health NZ board. Both appointments were made as ministerial appointments under different governments, reflecting the health system's ongoing need for expert primary care leadership.

Dr Betty said he was honoured to be appointed and remains focused on ensuring New Zealand has a strong, sustainable primary care sector.

"Primary care is central to the performance of the health system. I am committed to ensuring it is well supported and connected, particularly across the primary–secondary interface, workforce development, the sustainability of general practice, and improving equity of outcomes."

GPNZ informed its membership of the appointment earlier today. Dr Betty will continue in his role as Chair until he takes up his position with Health New Zealand in July. The GPNZ Executive Committee will consider leadership options to ensure a smooth transition at the upcoming meeting in May.

Notes:

General Practice New Zealand (GPNZ) is the national voice for primary care organisations in New Zealand. It advocates for the wellbeing of New Zealanders by supporting high quality general practice and community-based services. Its PHO member networks represent the majority of New Zealand general practices and cover an enrolled population of more than 4.4 million New Zealanders, including more than 80 per cent of the enrolled Māori population. www.gpnz.co.nz

Dr Bryan Betty began his career in Australia, returning to New Zealand in 2001 to work at Porirua Union & Community Health Service, a practice serving a predominantly high needs community in Cannons Creek, East Porirua. Bryan remains at the clinic as GP and clinical director. Dr Betty became GPNZ Chair in 2023, having previously held roles including Pharmac deputy medical director, RNZCGP medical director, and COVID response Technical Advisory Group member. In 2022 Bryan was appointed as an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to health.

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