Northland District Health Board

Healthcare organization in New Zealand

The Northland District Health Board (NDHB) is a district health board responsible for providing healthcare services to the Northland region of New Zealand. It is one of the 20 district health boards established by the New Zealand government to manage public health services in their respective regions.

History

The Northland District Health Board was established in 2001 as part of the New Zealand government's health sector reforms. These reforms aimed to decentralize healthcare management and improve the delivery of health services across the country. The NDHB was tasked with overseeing the planning, funding, and provision of health services to the Northland region, which includes the areas of Whangārei, Kaipara, and the Far North District.

Governance

The NDHB is governed by a board of directors, which includes both elected and appointed members. The board is responsible for setting the strategic direction of the organization and ensuring that it meets the health needs of the Northland population.

Anthony Norman, a notable figure in Northland healthcare

Key Personnel

The board is chaired by Harry Burkhardt, who has been involved in various leadership roles within the community. The Chief Executive Officer is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the NDHB.

Harry Burkhardt, Chair of the NDHB

Services

The Northland District Health Board provides a wide range of health services, including:

• Primary care services
• Secondary care services
• Tertiary care services
• Public health initiatives
• Mental health services
• Māori health services

The NDHB operates several hospitals and healthcare facilities, including Whangārei Hospital, which is the largest hospital in the region.

Challenges

The Northland region faces several healthcare challenges, including a dispersed population, high levels of deprivation, and significant health disparities, particularly among the Māori population. The NDHB works to address these challenges through targeted health programs and initiatives.

Initiatives

The NDHB has implemented various initiatives to improve health outcomes in the region. These include programs focused on reducing smoking rates, improving access to healthcare services, and promoting healthy lifestyles.

Sally Macauley, involved in health initiatives

Related pages

• Healthcare in New Zealand
• District health board
• Whangārei Hospital