Hon Dr Jonathan Coleman

Minister of Health

21 February 2017 Media Statement
Latest health target results – West Coast

Health Minister Jonathan Coleman says the latest health target results show West Coast DHB has made good progress, but there’s more to be done.

“The health targets help to improve performance across the health system, ensuring that Kiwis get better access to health services,” says Dr Coleman.

“The latest health target results for October to December 2016 show West Coast DHB continues to perform well, but there’s always more to do.

“I’d like to acknowledge all the health professionals in the West Coast for their continued hard work to improve key health services for Kiwis.

“Nationally the improved access to elective surgery target was achieved again. West Coast DHB was seven per cent above the target. The answer to increased demand is to do more.

“West Coast DHB topped the table for the shorter stays in ED target with 99 per cent, and it also topped the table for better help for smokers to quit with 91 per cent. Further work is needed however on the faster cancer treatment, and increased immunisation for eight-month olds targets.”

These results are supported by the $25 million funding increase West Coast DHB has received over the last eight years. West Coast DHB will receive an extra $3 million in new money this year, taking the DHB’s total funding to $132 million for 2016/17.

Overall an extra $568 million is being invested into the health sector this year - the biggest single increase in seven years - taking the health budget to a record $16.1 billion in 2016/17.

The results for Quarter Two 2016/17 can be found at: www.health.govt.nz

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