Media Release

Date: 2 July 2007

No Truancy Officers Used at Waikato DHB

Reports today in the media about how the Waikato DHB is taking steps to manage sick leave are incorrect, said acting chief executive Jerry Rickman.

The Waikato DHB does not habitually follow up staff who are having a day off work. The DHB does however support the wellness of its staff.

"The Waikato DHB began implementing a pilot project in 2002 within the nursing service at Waikato Hospital with the aim of improving wellness of staff. This project was evaluated in 2006," he said.

The project analysed the DHB's current policy and aligned it with the project's overall aims.

"We looked at shift work fatigue, reviewed rosters to ensure they were appropriate, encouraged staff health and fitness and assisted staff to manage ongoing unplanned absenteeism.

"Absenteeism did reduce significantly as a result of our initiatives. We did not use truancy officers.
"We said to our staff 'if you're off habitually, it's because you're tired'. This was aimed at supporting our people," said Mr Rickman.

Following the evaluation of the project, it was found that where the project was implemented fully, unplanned absenteeism did reduce significantly.

"As a result we now offer twice weekly Tai Chi sessions, reduced gym memberships and showers are available for all staff wanting to exercise during the day or night," he said.

The project is being revamped at the moment to incorporate new research and to implement it across the rest of the DHB.

ENDS