Kia ora tatou
Well, we’re starting to get into the chilly season and here at Counties Manukau and we have lots of plans in place to try to help keep our community safe and well.
The Minister of Health has just released a very comprehensive action plan for winter and we will be in sync with that at a local level.
In other news, I am delighted to report we have been able to achieve a 100 percent ‘opening’ rate in our operating theatres some days over the last couple of weeks - an indication we are making some real progress on the staffing issue.
It was also a reflection of fewer staff being away sick, and we have our fingers crossed this will continue in the near future.
Our staff are also doing their best to keep themselves and our communities safe by getting their flu vaccinations and COVID boosters.
Another thing that’s been on our mind is the question of keeping outpatient and clinic appointments humming.
It’s most important we have an up-to-date email, phone and physical address for anyone that is waiting for an appointment with us so we can get in touch with you– either email: customerservice@cmdhb.org.nz or phone: 09 277 1660 or 0800 266 513.
Finally, I should just note we’re having three special days to celebrate some of our fine staff. It was Admin Professionals Day recently, we’ve just celebrated International Midwives Day, and International Nurses Day on May 12 (Florence Nightingale’s birthday).
I know you’ll join me in offering them all our warmest appreciation.
Ngaa mihi
Andrew Connolly
Chief Medical Officer
Counties Manukau Health