Maori Diabetes service launched in Whanau Centre

Maori Diabetes service launched in Whanau Centre

The launch of a new service in Whanau Centre will help whanau in west Auckland deal with the diabetes epidemic.

Te Hononga Oranga was launched on Wednesday, November 26.

The service is run by the Waitemata DHB and operates on Tuesday and Friday from the Ground Floor of Whanau Centre.

Wai-Health General Manager Airini Tukerangi said diabetes was a major health issue for Maori and applauded the Waitemata DHB for its innovative approach by delivering the service where whanau will engage.

“This is a very important issue for Maori and basing this at Whanau Centre makes sense,” Airini said.

“Statistics show care within a Maori kaupapa equates to improved engagement into mainstream services.”

Maori with diabetes have the worst health outcomes in New Zealand, and Maori are more likely to experience long-term complications from diabetes 10 years earlier than non-Maori.

John Paterson, Group Manager, He Kamaka Waiora, for the Waitemata and Auckland District Health Boards said this collaboration with Waipareira would ultimately save lives.

“Many patients are unable to effectively manage diabetes for multifaceted reasons,” John said.

“A Whanau Ora approach supports patients to address barriers that prevent them from achieving better health outcomes.”

He said Whanau Centre is the best suited to deliver this service and is backed up by statistics.

“Thus far, 100% of newly referred diabetes patients prefer to be seen at Whanau Centre,’ John said.

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