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No Truancy Officers Used at Waikato DHB
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
Waikato District Health Board
Healthy People. Excellent Care
Waikato District Health Board (DHB) employs over 6500 people and plans, funds and provides hospital and health services to more than 391,770 people in a region covering eight per cent of New Zealand.
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