Public Have Say On New Wellington Public Hospital

Over the next two weeks people from Wellington and surrounding regions have an chance to give their views on the new Wellington public hospital.

"Next week heralds the beginning of a series of public meetings where the future hospital can be discussed by everyone," says Ministry of Health's medical chief advisor, Dr Colin Feek

"People can make a contribution by attending and voicing their opinions at one of the meetings, or by making a written submission."

The New Wellington Public Hospital: Discussion Document lists and explains factors for the public to consider, weight and make submissions on.

Dr Feek says the public meetings are just one part of the Ministry of Health's consultation over the new hospital, which includes presentations in the outlying regional centres, focus groups and individual interviews.

"Making decisions about hospital facilities is complex and needs to incorporate numerous factors like demographics, technology change, requirements governing clinical quality, access, site considerations and relationships with other services.

"Public submissions will be one element of the information considered in the decision-making process. These submissions will help Government make the best decision about where the hospital should be, how big it should be and what services it should deliver."

People have until August 9 to express their views about a new hospital for the region. A technical advisory group has been formed to oversee the submissions process.

The New Wellington Public Hospital Discussion Document is available on the Ministry of Health Web site: http://www.moh.govt.nz/wgtnhospital.html, or phone 0800 942 266 to order a copy.

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