Latest Media Releases
Introducing This Page
This page introduces you to Media Releases publicised by the West Coast DHB. If there are any news you expected to find and they aren't shown here try our Media Releases Archive, or contact the West Coast DHB Communications Officer.
Latest Media Releases
This section contains links to recent West Coast District Health Boards media releases.
New role means better service for cancer patients
17 / 05 / 2013 Former practice nurse at the Greymouth Rural Academic Practice, Andrea Reilly has been appointed into a new role of Cancer Nurse Coordinator for the West Coast District Health Board. Details...
Satisfaction from overcoming the challenges of remote rural locations
02 / 04 / 2013 Bouncing along rural tracks trying to find houses with only a number as a reference can be challenging, but it's worth it to ensure that West Coast children get the protection they need, and that the Government's immunisation targets are met. Details...
Coasters going green for the good of their health
11 / 03 / 2013 In spite of the West Coast having a national image of being populated by rugged outdoors types as fit as the proverbial buck rabbit, the Coast is actually no stranger to the modern epidemic of the Western world - a chronic lack of regular exercise in many people's lives leading to such issues as obesity and diabetes. Details...
Excellent result for West Coast meeting national health targets
01 / 03 / 2013 The West Coast community leads the country for having the shortest stays in an Emergency Department. This is one of six national health targets set by the Minister of Health, which DHBs have to report against on a quarterly basis. Details...
Minister Turia to discuss health and social issue on West Coast
28 / 02 / 2013 West Coast health workers and those working in social services and community NGOs will have a chance to engage directly with the Minister for Whanau Ora on health and social issues when Hon Tariana Turia visits Hokitika and Greymouth on Tuesday 5 March 2013. Details...
Peer reviewed Buller X-ray building, Buller Hospital released
30 / 01 / 2013 A final detailed engineering evaluation [DEE] report received today has determined that while the West Coast DHB's Buller X-ray building, a single story wooden structure at Buller Health, Westport is earthquake prone, it has no critical structural weaknesses that would require the building to be vacated or immediate remedial work to be undertaken. Details...
Peer reviewed CAMHS Engineering Report released
29 / 01 / 2013 A detailed engineering evaluation [DEE] report received yesterday [Monday January 28] has determined that the West Coast DHB's Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service [CAMHS] building is not earthquake prone as defined by the Building Act 2004. It is however, at earthquake risk. Details...
Cardiovascular health well cared for
24 / 01 / 2013 West Coasters who have been hospitalised with a cardiovascular disease (CVD) event have the highest rates of being on a treatment regime that reduces the likelihood of further events or death. Details...
West Coast DHB to permanently close its laundry
19 / 12 / 2012 The West Coast District Health Board confirmed today that it will close its laundry service at Grey Base Hospital from Tuesday, 22 January 2013. Details...
West Coast DHB welcomes Government announcement to fast track plans for Grey Base Hospital
19 / 12 / 2012 The West Coast District Health Board (DHB) has welcomed the Government's move to establish a Grey Base Hospital Redevelopment Partnership Group to finalise and fast track plans to redevelop Grey Base Hospital in Greymouth. Details...
West Coast Children to benefit from Countdown Kids Appeal
18 / 12 / 2012 West Coast children will benefit from new equipment as a result of the generosity displayed by New Zealanders through the Countdown Kids Hospital Appeal. Details...
Warm Up West Coast Insulation Scheme
17 / 12 / 2012 Healthy West Coast has received notice that the Warm Up West Coast Home Insulation Programme has come to a close. Details...
Major improvements in referral processes at West Coast DHB
14 / 12 / 2012 Recent statements that referrals for bowel cancer from Buller GPs are getting lost at Grey Base Hospital, and that some GP locums are unaware of the West Coast DHB's fast-track processes for treating bowel cancer are no longer valid, says Michael Frampton, Programme Director for the West Coast DHB. Details...
Changes in the maternity area at Grey Base Hospital
11 / 12 / 2012 The necessity to vacate the seaward end of the Morice / McBrearty ward block due to seismic concerns will result in some changes to maternity services at Grey Base Hospital. Details...
Chief Executive's perspective on permanent closure of West Coast DHB Laundry
28 / 11 / 2012 In the last few days I have received a number of questions from members of the community about our decision to consult with staff on the permanent closure of the laundry at Grey Base Hospital. Details...
Consultation on permanent closure of West Coast DHB Laundry
23 / 11 / 2012 The need for substantial expenditure to bring Grey Base Hospital buildings to a safe seismic standard, alongside potential South Island-wide changes in the way laundry services are provided to district health boards, have together compelled the West Coast District Health Board to investigate closing its laundry on a permanent basis. Details...
Buller Weekend Emergency clinic move to Outpatients department
21 / 11 / 2012 Urgent after-hours clinics previously held at the Buller Health Medical Centre will move to the Buller Health Outpatients Department this from weekend; Saturday November 24 and Sunday November 25. Details...
Making Our Hospitals Safer
21 / 11 / 2012 The West Coast District Health Board welcomes the release of a report on 'Sentinel and Serious Events' by the Health Quality and Safety Commission, says Chief Medical Officer Dr Carol Atmore. Details...
Relocation moves begin at Grey Base Hospital
16 / 11 / 2012 Today sees the beginning of a number of shifts of Grey Base Hospital services that will result in the eventual vacation of the seaward end of the Morice Ward / McBrearty Ward and Medical Administration block. Details...
Important changes to accessing personal medical records
16 / 11 / 2012 An improved system for sharing medical records between health professionals is expected to enhance patient care on the West Coast. Details...
New Zealand Red Cross Community Transport Westport
12 / 11 / 2012 New Zealand Red Cross in conjunction with West Coast District Health Board and Buller REAP are pleased to announce the trial of a Community Transport Service from Westport to Grey Base Hospital. Details...
Associate Minister of Health Tariana Turia to visit the West Coast
29 / 10 / 2012 West Coast health workers and those working in social services and community NGOs will have a chance to engage directly with the Minister for Whānau Ora on health and social issues when Hon Tariana Turia visits Hokitika and Greymouth on Tuesday (30 October). Details...
Update - Associate Minister of Health Tariana Turia unable to visit the West Coast
29 / 10 / 2012 Unfortunately the visit of Minister Tariana Turia scheduled for tomorrow, Tuesday October 30 has had to be cancelled. Details...
Spring 'snapshot' out this week
12 / 10 / 2012 The West Coast District Health Board this week releases its fourth Report to the Community, a newsletter giving a snapshot of the latest that's happening in the health system on the West Coast. Details...
Parfitt Kids - Making a child's time in hospital a little less stressful
04 / 10 / 2012 The experience of having children in hospital has encouraged two Greymouth women to set up a trust to support children from across the West Coast who are admitted to Parfitt Children's Ward at the Grey Base Hospital. Details...
Further update on seismic issues at Grey Base Hospital
28 / 09 / 2012 This week the West Coast DHB received preliminary engineering evaluations regarding seismic risk to further hospital facilities in Greymouth. Details...
Update on seismic issues at Grey Base Hospital
20 / 09 / 2012 Over the past ten days, staff at the West Coast District Health Board (DHB) have been working hard to identify options for reconfiguring services in light of the facility constraints emerging from new information about seismic risk. Details...
West Coast DHB to establish a Complex Clinical Care Network
17 / 09 / 2012 In July this year the West Coast DHB asked staff for their feedback on a report that sought to replace the current Needs Assessment and Service Co-ordination service, known as Carelink, with a Complex Clinical Care Network (CCCN) for older person's health. Details...
West Coast DHB moves urgently to address critical seismic issues at Grey Base Hospital
07 / 09 / 2012 The West Coast DHB is moving urgently to address critical seismic issues in two of its buildings at Grey Base Hospital. This week it received a detailed engineering report regarding Morice Ward, the Critical Care Unit, Waterson Day Surgery Unit, McBrearty Ward and medical administration, and a preliminary engineer's report on Hannan and Barclay Wards advising that both buildings are earthquake prone. Details...
Consultation on change to West Coast DHB Leadership Team
06 / 09 / 2012 Significant progress has been made in the past few months as the West Coast District Health Board continues along the pathway of transforming the way health services are delivered on the West Coast. Details...
Cervical Screening Awareness Month a prompt for West Coast women
30 / 08 / 2012 West Coast women are urged to use September - Cervical Screening Awareness Month - as a reminder to have a cervical smear test every three years. Details...
Big improvement in HPV immunisation rates
23 / 08 / 2012 Good communication with schools, careful co-ordination with rural GP visits, and collaboration with the Cervical Screening Programme has resulted in much-improved immunisation rates on the Coast for the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Details...
Seismic testing to start at Buller Health
17 / 08 / 2012 Drilling equipment will move on to the Buller Health site next week to begin seismic testing of the land. Details...
Nurses play vital role on the West Coast
16 / 08 / 2012 The West Coast DHB is well aware of the vital role nurses play in delivering quality health care to the people living on the Coast. Details...
Recruitment initiatives introduced to the Coast
15 / 08 / 2012 A new careers website, faster processing of applications, a presence at a London-based recruitment expo and closer links with the Canterbury District Health Board (CDHB) are among initiatives to attract health professionals to roles in hospitals and the community on the West Coast. Details...
Statement from the Family of Tayne Bowes after a Tragic Accident
14 / 08 / 2012 Mark and Katrina Bowes are devastated and heartbroken at the loss of their son Tayne in a tragic accident on Sunday night. Details...
Parents urged to use free health checks for four-year-olds
09 / 08 / 2012 While the majority of West Coast parents are taking advantage of the free B4 School Check wellness programme for four year olds, there is still room to capture more, co-ordinator Lorraine Williams says. Details...
Weight loss and physical activity programmes a first on the Coast
03 / 08 / 2012 Free weight-loss and physical activity programmes are a first for the Coast, offering support, monitoring and education for people concerned about their weight and/or eager to become more physically active. Details...
Gastroenteritis at Grey Base Hospital
30 / 07 / 2012 Morice Ward at Grey Base Hospital went onto 'restricted access' on Friday as several patients and staff experienced symptoms of gastroenteritis. The illness, confirmed as Norovirus, causes vomiting and diarrhoea. Details...
Director appointed to health workforce collaboration
30 / 07 / 2012 A new collaboration between the five South Island district health boards (DHBs) focussed on health workforce development has achieved a key milestone with the appointment of its inaugural Regional Programme Director of Training. Details...
West Coast launch of Countdown Kids Appeal
27 / 07 / 2012 The West Coast launch of the 2012 Countdown Kids Hospital Appeal will be held at the Parfitt paediatric unit at Grey Base Hospital at 11.00 am on Friday August 3. Details...
West Coast DHB consulting with staff on proposed changes to Needs Assessment and Service Co-ordination service
05 / 07 / 2012 Ensuring that services for older people living on the Coast are robust and efficient is a priority for the West Coast District Health Board Details...
Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Update
05 / 07 / 2012 The pertussis outbreak that was first detected on the West Coast in May last year is now being experienced in other areas of the country, including in Canterbury, Nelson-Marlborough and parts of the North Island. Details...
West Coast DHB working closely with Canterbury DHB to provide orthopaedic services
04 / 07 / 2012 The West Coast DHB is working more closely with Canterbury DHB to provide comprehensive orthopaedic services to the West Coast community as part of a transalpine approach to providing sustainable services for the West Coast. Details...
Free general practice visits extended for children under six
03 / 07 / 2012 From 1 July the West Coast is implementing the Government policy of providing free after hours primary health care to children aged under six years Details...
Update Obstetric and Gynaecology Services at West Coast District Health Board
29 / 06 / 2012 Ongoing efforts from the West Coast District Health Board to secure specialist Obstetric and Gynaecology for an anticipated shortage from July 2 to July 5 have been successful. Details...
Obstetric and Gynaecology Services at West Coast District Health Board
27 / 06 / 2012 The West Coast District Health Board (WCDHB) is making arrangements to ensure women have access to obstetrics and gynaecology services for four days at the start of July when none will be available locally. Details...
Seismic testing to continue on Grey Hospital site
18 / 06 / 2012 Drilling equipment will move on to the Grey Base Hospital site this week to begin seismic testing of the land. Details...
Winter snapshot out this week
11 / 06 / 2012 The West Coast District Health Board this week releases its third Report to the Community, a newsletter giving a snapshot of the latest that's happening in the health system on the West Coast. Details...
Transport of Cardiac Patients
01 / 06 / 2012 A West Coast DHB Xcelr8 project is making a significant difference to the appropriate transfer of cardiac patients from the West Coast to Christchurch for treatment and care. Details...
Daily smoking drops dramatically among Year 10s
30 / 05 / 2012 The latest Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) Year 10 smoking survey shows that daily smoking rates among West Coasters aged 14-15 years have dropped massively in the last 12 years, from 22.5% to 4.3% last year. Details...
Excellent result for West Coast meeting national health targets
30 / 05 / 2012 The West Coast DHB has improved its performance in three of the six targets and maintained its position in the other three targets measured for Quarter 3 of the 2011/12 year says Chief Executive David Meates. Details...
Grey Base Hospital closes Laundry and Boiler House
25 / 05 / 2012 West Coast District Health Board chief executive, David Meates, said the DHB received a detailed engineer's report yesterday which found the Laundry and Boiler House and Boiler House chimney at Grey Base Hospital to be earthquake-prone and high risk. Details...
New board will lead clinical governance
08 / 05 / 2012 The newly established West Coast Health System Clinical Board today holds its first meeting, as a step towards providing stronger clinical leadership and clinical governance with the primary aim of ensuring safe, sustainable health care services on the Coast. Details...
West Coast Mum hopeful of a hospital-free winter
02 / 05 / 2012 A West Coast mother is looking forward to hopefully a hospital-free winter for her five-year-old son, following installation of home insulation under the Government's Warm Up New Zealand: Heat Smart scheme. Details...
Opinion piece - Future of health services on the West Coast
27 / 04 / 2012 Over recent weeks there has been a lot of speculation in the media around the future of health services on the West Coast. Details...
Theatre Postponements
18 / 04 / 2012 The West Coast DHB regrets that some patients have had their surgery postponed this week due to unexpected anaesthetist illness. Details...
Successful Public Meetings
13 / 04 / 2012 During the second half of March, DHB Chief Medical Officer Dr Carol Atmore led a series of advertised public meetings up and down the West Coast on the future direction of the health system on the West Coast. Details...
West Coast DHB calls for expressions of interest
04 / 04 / 2012 The West Coast District Health Board is seeking expressions of interest from individuals, investors or companies keen to be involved in the development of the proposed integrated family health centre for the Buller region. Details...
Response from West Coast District Health Board re proposed changes to orthopaedic services on the West Coast
04 / 04 / 2012 Responding to recent media coverage about a proposed change to the way orthopaedic services will be delivered on the West Coast, West Coast DHB Chief Executive, David Meates said, "We have said for some time that we have to live within our means..." Details...
Outpatients urged to attend appointments
30 / 03 / 2012 West Coasters are being encouraged to make their outpatient appointments a priority, with patients on appointment waiting lists missing out on moving up the list when others just do not turn up. Details...
West Coasters offered free flu protection
23 / 03 / 2012 West Coasters are being urged to call their doctor or nurse as soon as possible to book their 'flu' vaccination before the start of winter - the vaccination is free for many people. Details...
Public meetings throughout the West Coast
15 / 03 / 2012 Following the successful Community Health Expo held in Greymouth, the West Coast DHB is running a series of public meetings to discuss changes to the health system on the West Coast. People are invited to come along to share their ideas. Details...
West Coast DHB decides on Buller Health site as location for new Integrated Family Health Centre
12 / 03 / 2012 On Friday the West Coast District Health Board agreed that its preferred site for the proposed Buller Integrated Family Health Centre is the current Buller Health site. Details...
West Coast DHB committed to maintaining quality orthopaedic care on Coast
08 / 03 / 2012 David Meates, Chief Executive of the West Coast DHB said that providing quality orthopaedic care on the West Coast will continue, however it must be provided in a manner that is affordable. Details...
Second 'snapshot' released this week
06 / 03 / 2012 The West Coast District Health Board this week releases its second Report to the Community, a newsletter giving a snapshot of the latest that's happening in the health sector on the West Coast. Details...
Excellent result for West Coast meeting national health targets
28 / 02 / 2012 West Coast DHB performance against Government health targets for Quarter 2 of the 2011/12 year is very pleasing says Chief Executive David Meates. Details...
Making Our Hospitals Safer
20 / 02 / 2012 The reporting today of Sentinel and Serious Events by the Health Quality and Safety Commission sharpens the focus on the quality of patient care at the West Coast DHB says Chief Medical Officer Dr Carol Atmore. Details...
New approach to care for mental health unit
09 / 02 / 2012 A method of care that reduces the need for restraint and seclusion for mental health clients is being introduced to Greymouth Hospital's Manaakitanga Acute Admissions Unit. Details...
New streamlined phone system for Buller Health Medical Centre
03 / 02 / 2012 Patients calling Westport's Buller Health Medical Centre are being asked to think ahead about what type of service they are seeking, when a new automated telephone service kicks in this month. Details...
Progress on Buller Integrated Family Health Centre
31 / 01 / 2012 Following submissions and feedback from the community, health professionals and other interested parties on the proposed Buller Integrated Family Health Centre (IFHC), the Board of the West Coast DHB has concluded that the Buller IFHC should be built on a single site and that aged care be combined under a single provider. Details...
New Smokefree Co-ordinator Determined To Get Smoking Rates Down
19 / 01 / 2012 The West Coast's new Smokefree Services Co-ordinator, along with local health organisations, is determined to improve the Coast's smoking rates, among the highest in the country. Details...
New appointments process for South Westland health clinics
23 / 12 / 2011 A new 0800 phone number has been launched for South Westland health clinics. Details...
Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Update (11)
23 / 12 / 2011 The pertussis outbreak currently being experienced continues to infect more people, particularly children on the West Coast. Details...
Innovative health service making a difference on the Coast
21 / 12 / 2011 An innovative service that helps people navigate their way through health and social services continues to go from strength to strength, with client numbers doubling in four years. Details...
Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Update (10)
14 / 12 / 2011 The pertussis outbreak currently being experienced continues to infect more people, particularly children on the West Coast. Details...
West Coast Children benefit from Countdown Kids Appeal
12 / 12 / 2011 West Coast children will benefit from new equipment as a result of the generosity displayed by New Zealanders through the Countdown Kids Hospital Appeal. Details...
New community respite care programme starts next month
12 / 12 / 2011 A service giving older people the opportunity to have respite care in a homely and comfortable setting is starting on the West Coast next month. Details...
Excellent result for West Coast meeting national health targets
01 / 12 / 2011 Overall the first quarter heath results (2011/12) for the West Coast DHB are an excellent result, says DHB CE David Meates. Details...
West Coast DHB releases its Annual Report
24 / 11 / 2011 The West Coast District Health Board has released its Annual Report for 2010 -2011. The report can be uploaded from the DHB's website. Details...
Share for Care goes live at end of November
23 / 11 / 2011 West Coast residents are encouraged to actively opt-in to the Share for Care system before the first upload of health information into the system takes place at the end of the month. Details...
Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Update (9)
18 / 11 / 2011 A combination of childhood immunisation, provision of a booster vaccine and seasonal change may be having an effect on the current pertussis outbreak on the West Coast. Details...
Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Update (8)
11 / 11 / 2011 With no new suspected cases of pertussis reported from Westland in the past week, health officials are hopeful that the pertussis outbreak there has run its course. Elsewhere on the West Coast new cases are being reported from Grey and Buller districts, generally associated with family or household clusters. Details...
Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Update (7)
04 / 11 / 2011 The majority of new suspected cases of pertussis on the West Coast now come from the Grey district with sporadic cases being reported from Westland and Buller districts. Details...
Important changes to accessing personal medical records
03 / 11 / 2011 A new way of managing personal medical records is being introduced on the West Coast, and residents are encouraged to actively 'opt-in' to the system. Details...
Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Update (6)
28 / 10 / 2011 The number of new cases of pertussis in Westland district has now reduced significantly, however, the outbreak is spreading to other districts. The majority of new suspected pertussis notifications come from the Grey District. Details...
Immunisation
27 / 10 / 2011 There are various reasons why parents do not have their children immunised. Unfortunately, recent outbreaks of diseases like whooping cough and measles are testimony to what happens when not enough members of a community are immunised against them, writes West Coast Medical Officer of Health Dr Cheryl Brunton. Details...
Business case and Feedback on Buller Integrated Family Health Centre
26 / 10 / 2011 West Coast DHB is happy to release the report 'Building a Better Buller Health System: Buller Integrated Family Health Centre Development Plan and Indicative / Strategic Business Case' together with copies of the written submissions received from the public, staff and unions regarding the proposed Buller Integrated Family Health Centre. Details...
Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Update (5)
21 / 10 / 2011 While the number of new cases of pertussis from Westland district has reduced, the number in the Grey district is starting to climb. At this stage all the cases in Grey have a link to Westland. Details...
Buller Integrated Family Health Centre
17 / 10 / 2011 The Board of the West Coast DHB received 'Building a Better Buller Health System: Buller Integrated Family Health Centre Development Plan and Indicative / Strategic Business Case' together with copies of the feedback received after the September public meeting in Westport at its meeting in Greymouth on Friday October 14. Details...
Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Update (4)
14 / 10 / 2011 The free booster vaccine now available to health care workers, early childhood education staff, and those living with a baby under the age of six months is only part of what's needed to help contain the current outbreak of pertussis on the West Coast says Dr Cheryl Brunton, the West Coast Medical Officer of Health. Details...
Obstetric and Gynaecology Services at West Coast District Health Board
12 / 10 / 2011 Due to unexpected illness, no specialist Obstetric & Gynaecology cover is available onsite at the West Coast DHB until the evening of Thursday 13 October 2011. Details...
Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Update (3)
07 / 10 / 2011 A free booster vaccine will be available to health care and early childhood education staff along with parents of a baby under the age of six months to help combat the current pertussis outbreak on the West Coast. Access to the free vaccine will be through their General Practice. Details...
Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Update (2)
30 / 09 / 2011 Steps to protect young children and babies have been announced as part of the health sector approach to combat the current pertussis outbreak on the West Coast. Details...
Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Update
23 / 09 / 2011 Parents are urged to keep children home from school or preschool and to stay at home from work themselves, if they develop a persistent cough. Details...
500 homes to be insulated on the West Coast for free
22 / 09 / 2011 Five hundred West Coast homes will be insulated for free through a joint venture between the West Coast District Health Board, Autex GreenStuf, contractor The Insulation Company, and the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) via the Government's insulation programme Warm Up New Zealand: Heat Smart (WUNZ). Details...
Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
19 / 09 / 2011 The West Coast's Medical Officer of Health is urging parents to keep children home from school or preschool, and to stay at home from work themselves, if they develop a cough, as part of measures to combat an outbreak of whooping cough on the West Coast. The outbreak is centred on Hokitika in Westland. Details...
Improving health services in Buller - Editorial by David Meates, CE West Coast DHB
14 / 09 / 2011 On Monday (September 19) there is a further public meeting at the NBS Westport Centre to update the community about the proposed integrated family health centre for Buller. Ensuring you have the opportunity to provide more feedback about the proposals and understand the reason for change is important. Details...
Successful weekend for West Coast medical families
07 / 09 / 2011 A weekend for West Coast health professionals focusing on inter-disciplinary learning proved extremely successful, according to organisers and participants. Details...
Newsletter gives snapshot of the West Coast health sector
05 / 09 / 2011 The West Coast District Health Board this week releases its first Report to the Community, a newsletter giving a snapshot of what is happening in the health sector on the West Coast. Details...
Excellent result for West Coast meeting national health targets
01 / 09 / 2011 West Coast residents are receiving very good service from their DHB in the latest health target results released yesterday... Details...
Cervical Screening Awareness Month a prompt for West Coast women
24 / 08 / 2011 Women on the West Coast are being urged to use September - Cervical Screening Awareness Month - as a prompt to take control of their own health. Details...
West Coast DHB and Granger House working together to improve services
24 / 08 / 2011 The West Coast DHB and UniMed, the owners of Granger House rest home in Greymouth are working together to address concerns about the quality of patient care and staffing. Details...
West Coast Exceeds Surgery Targets
17 / 08 / 2011 More West Coasters than ever before had surgery performed at the DHB during the last financial year. Details...
Increase in funding for dementia care on West Coast
09 / 08 / 2011 Dementia care on the West Coast will benefit from an extra $90,000 this year following a funding increase announced in the 2011 budget. The extra funding will increase the opportunity for more rest home level dementia care beds that are in short supply on the Coast. Details...
West Coast mums participate in World Breastfeeding week
03 / 08 / 2011 Outstanding breastfeeding rates on the West Coast will see mums on the Coast taking this Friday's Big Latch On in their stride as part of World Breastfeeding Week. Details...
Bringing rural medicine to the forefront
04 / 07 / 2011 Rural medicine is general practice at its most challenging and satisfying, says Westport-based rural GP registrar Dr Amir Khan. Details...
West Coast DHB leading the way with Telemedicine initiatives
27 / 06 / 2011 Further improvements are being planned for the delivery of medical support to the West Coast from a distance, giving improved and more equitable access to health care services. Details...
Feedback Released on Buller Integrated Family Health Centre
23 / 06 / 2011 West Coast DHB is happy to release the 42 written submissions that were received from the public, staff and unions regarding the proposed Buller Integrated Family Health Centre. Details...
Community gives feedback on Buller Integrated Family Health Centre
20 / 06 / 2011 West Coast DHB CE David Meates expressed his pleasure at the interest generated in this first phase of engagement regarding the proposal. Details...
Whataroa and Hari Hari Rural Nurses
16 / 06 / 2011 'No loss of services to the community and more manageable staff workloads are the outcomes of a study into the rural nursing requirements of Whataroa and Hari Hari. Details...
Excellent result for West Coast meeting national health targets
26 / 05 / 2011 'West Coast residents should feel very happy with the performance of their DHB in the latest health target results released today,' says DHB CE David Meates. Details...
Feedback from Community still wanted on Buller Health Services Plan
23 / 05 / 2011 West Coast DHB CE, David Meates is reminding people to have their say on the proposed Buller Health services plan. The plan describes the proposed new model of care for Buller, examines the options in terms of a new facility and looks at the predicted volumes and types of care to be provided in the future. Details...
Sapere Buller Health Services Plan
13 / 05 / 2011 The West Coast DHB is pleased to release the Buller Health services plan – it's a draft report that describes the proposed new model of care, examines the options in terms of a new facility and looks at the predicted volumes and types of care to be provided in the future. Details...
West Coast leads the way in breastfeeding
02 / 05 / 2011 West Coast mothers are leading the charge in their commitment to breastfeeding with latest figures showing breastfeeding rates at six months are nearly twice the national target. Details...
Buller residents reminded to have their say to help shape community health services
02 / 05 / 2011 Buller residents are being urged to attend a meeting at 7 pm this Thursday 5 May at the NBS Theatre in Westport to discuss the future of the community's health services. Details...
Public Meeting to Discuss Future Health Services in Buller
15 / 04 / 2011 Buller residents will get the chance to help shape the future of the community's health services at a public meeting being held next month. Details...
Buller JAG on Integrated Family Health Centre for Westport close to conclusion
23 / 03 / 2011 The Buller Joint Action Group (JAG), tasked with designing a model for an Integrated Family Health Centre based in Westport, is close to finishing its work on developing a proposal for future service delivery. Details...
Preventing the spread of infection
10 / 03 / 2011 Advice given to Christchurch residents since the February 22 earthquake about the risks from spreading infections is a timely reminder of the importance of good hygiene to help prevent the spread of infections in all of our families and communities. Details...
Christchurch Earthquake Update, 2nd March 2011
02 / 03 / 2011 There has been an increase in presentations to General Practices and the Greymouth Emergency Department from people who have relocated from Christchurch. Details...
Christchurch Earthquake Update, 28th February 2011
28 / 02 / 2011 There was additional strain on General Practices and the Greymouth Emergency Department from people who have relocated from Christchurch. However, this is easing now that the initial rush of people with minor quake related injuries is over. Details...
Hospital Equipment Request
25 / 02 / 2011 The West Coast DHB is urgently requesting the return of any loan equipment that patients no longer require. With the number of people suffering injuries as a result of the Christchurch earthquake it is anticipated that there will be a significant demand for such equipment. Details...
Christchurch Earthquake Update, 25th February 2011
25 / 02 / 2011 West Coast DHB has resumed elective surgery however this has been impacted by the availability of some Christchurch-based specialists. Details...
Joint Action Group Progress Enhanced Service for Buller
15 / 02 / 2011 Significant progress was made towards the development of an enhanced model of health service delivery for people in the Buller district at the Joint Action Group meeting in Westport last Wednesday. Details...
Warriors help launch Heart Week
07 / 02 / 2011 Four Vodafone Warriors visited Grey Base Hospital on Friday to show their support and help launch National Heart Week on the West Coast. Details...
Ngakawau Health Clinic to reopen
04 / 02 / 2011 The West Coast DHB Health Clinic at Ngakawau is to reopen on Monday 7 February. The clinic has been closed after it was damaged in an arson attack just after Christmas. Details...
Elective surgery to increase at the West Coast DHB
28 / 01 / 2011 West Coast District Health Board has developed a plan to ensure it achieves its elective surgery target for the 2010/11 year. Details...
Good progress in child immunisation coverage
28 / 01 / 2011 GP practices and the Outreach Immunisation Service's strong commitment to achieving the Government's health target to fully immunise 95 per cent of two-year-olds is paying dividends. Details...
Fresh Future Trust Presentation
14 / 12 / 2010 West Coast children's hospital services will benefit significantly as the result of the 2010 Fresh Future Appeal. Details...
Health Assistance Offered To West Coast
09 / 12 / 2010 West Coast healthcare providers have been receiving many offers of assistance and support following the tragedy at the Pike River Coal mine last month. Details...
West Coast District Health Board Chair
03 / 12 / 2010 West Coast District Health Board's current deputy chair Dr Paul McCormack will next week take up his seat as the new chair of the board. Details...
Pike River Mine Incident - Focus on looking after each other
26 / 11 / 2010 As the West Coast comes to terms with the tragedy at the Pike River Coal mine, it is particularly important that the community looks after themselves, friends and whanau. Details...
Pike River Mine Incident - Update from Grey Base Hospital
20 / 11 / 2010 Pike River Coal miners, Russell Smith (50) and Daniel Rockhouse (24), who both received moderate injuries after an explosion at the mine yesterday, have been discharged from Grey Base Hospital. Details...
Pike River Mine Incident
19 / 11 / 2010 Two men from the Pike River Coal mine near Greymouth have arrived at Grey Base Hospital for treatment following an explosion at the mine late this afternoon. Details...
Nurse Practitioner Appointed
16 / 11 / 2010 Canadian Nurse Practitioner Friederike von Aweyden has been appointed to the newly created position of Nurse Practitioner at the Rural Academic General Practice at Grey Base Hospital. Details...
Ken Mason to chair Health Leadership Team
10 / 11 / 2010 Retired District Court Judge, Ken Mason has been appointed as an independent chair of the leadership team charged with implementing primary healthcare reforms on the West Coast. Details...
Industrial Action
08 / 11 / 2010 The West Coast District Health Board has received notice from the Association of Professionals and Executive Employees (APEX) that radiographers are withdrawing their labour from 8.00am on Tuesday 9 September until 7.00am Thursday 11 November. Details...
Health Needs Questionnaire
18 / 10 / 2010 There has been an excellent response by West Coast residents to the survey regarding priorities for the District Health Board with over 800 responses received. Public feedback has requested that the response time be extended to give more people the opportunity to submit their opinions. Details...
Rural Academic General Practice Opening
08 / 10 / 2010 Prime Minister John Key reaffirmed the Government's commitment to the training of medical staff at yesterday's opening of the Rural Academic General Practice at Grey Base Hospital. Details...
Upgraded Dental Clinic Opened
08 / 10 / 2010 Over 700 preschool to adolescent aged patients from the Hokitika area will benefit from the opening of a significantly upgraded West Coast District Health Board dental facility at Hokitika Primary School. Details...
Tender let for new Franz Josef health facility
27 / 09 / 2010 St John and the West Coast District Health Board (WCDHB) are pleased to announce that, following a tender process, they have chosen a construction company for the new combined ambulance station and medical centre at Franz Josef. Details...
Health Needs Questionnaire
22 / 09 / 2010 West Coast residents are being surveyed for their thoughts regarding priorities for the District Health Board. Details...
Primary Health Organisation (PHO) Performance Programme
14 / 09 / 2010 The West Coast District Health Board is pleased by the PHO Performance Programme results for the period 1 July - 31 December 2009, released by the Ministry of Health on Friday. Details...
Earthquake Health Relief
08 / 09 / 2010 Three West Coast District Health Board nurses left Greymouth this morning to assist with providing healthcare in Christchurch. Details...
Relocation of Greymouth Family Health Centre to Rural Academic General Practice
07 / 09 / 2010 Greymouth Family Health Centre is to relocate to the new Rural Academic General Practice when it opens on the Grey Base Hospital site on Monday 13th September. Details...
Final Phase of 2010 HPV Vaccination Programme to Start
06 / 09 / 2010 The HPV immunisation programme to help protect girls and young women from future cervical cancer has hit a key milestone with more than 100,000 eligible young New Zealand women having made the choice to get vaccinated. Details...
Industrial Action
03 / 09 / 2010 The West Coast District Health Board has received notice from the Association of Professionals and Executive Employees (APEX) that radiographers are withdrawing their labour from 7.00am on Tuesday 7 September until 7.00am Wednesday 8 September. Details...
Home Care Workers Gain Qualifications
27 / 08 / 2010 Thirteen West Coast home care workers will today graduate with their National Certificate in Community Support Skills, Level 2. Details...
Have the Flu? - Phone First
13 / 08 / 2010 People with the flu on the West Coast are urged to phone their local medical centre or Healthline any time of the day or night if they have concerns regarding influenza. Details...
Swine Flu Still Here
13 / 08 / 2010 Dr Cheryl Brunton, West Coast Medical Officer of Health reports that Swine H1N1 Influenza has now been detected on the West Coast. Details...
Medical Advice for West Coasters
05 / 08 / 2010 A new procedure for West Coasters needing medical advice has been launched by the West Coast District Health Board and the West Coast Primary Health Organisation. Details...
Call your local Medical Centre early if you have the flu – West Coast doctors
05 / 08 / 2010 Although Swine H1N1 Influenza is not yet present in West Coast communities, local doctors are urging people who think they may have the flu to call their general practice or rural nurse clinic promptly, so that antiviral medicines can be prescribed if necessary. Details...
Fresh Future Appeal
04 / 08 / 2010 West Coast children are again set to benefit as the 2010 Fresh Future Appeal is launched this week. Details...
Feedback received on Better, Sooner, More Convenient Primary Health Care Plan
21 / 07 / 2010 We thank those people who took the time to respond to the 'Better, Sooner, More Convenient' (BSMC) plan. We acknowledge the points raised, and below provide a summary of our response to the feedback received. Details...
Women's and Children's Health Initiatives Presented at WCDHB Meeting
14 / 07 / 2010 Canterbury District Health Board's (CDHB) Women's and Children's Division is putting its support behind West Coast efforts to enhance the consistency and quality of women's and children's health services on the Coast. Details...
Update 2 - Obstetric and Gynaecology Services at West Coast District Health Board
08 / 07 / 2010 As stated in the release of 1 July 2010, the West Coast DHB wishes to confirm that they will not have any specialist Obstetric & Gynaecology cover available onsite from the morning of Monday 12 July 2010 until the morning of Friday 16 July 2010. Details...
Update - Obstetric and Gynaecology Services at West Coast District Health Board
01 / 07 / 2010 Further to the release of 28 June 2010, the West Coast DHB wishes to advise that currently they have no specialist Obstetric & Gynaecology cover available onsite from the morning of Monday 12 July 2010 until the morning of Friday 16 July 2010. Details...
Obstetric and Gynaecology Services at West Coast District Health Board
28 / 06 / 2010 The West Coast DHB wishes to advise that for the next month there will be times when there is only limited specialist Obstetric and Gynaecology cover available onsite. Details...
An Innovative Joint Approach to Health Care on the West Coast
28 / 06 / 2010 St John and the West Coast District Health Board (WCDHB) are pleased to announce that they have finalised a collaborative agreement for the new combined ambulance station and medical centre at Franz Josef. Details...
Ophthalmology Services at West Coast District Health Board
11 / 06 / 2010 After a Request for Proposal (tender) process, the West Coast District Health Board is to change Ophthalmology service provider for Greymouth and Westland Districts from 1 July 2010. Details...
ASMS letter regarding the West Coast Integrated Family Health Centre proposal
28 / 05 / 2010 The West Coast District Health Board has received a letter from the Association of Salaried Medical Specialists regarding the West Coast Integrated Family Health Centre proposal. Details...
West Coast District Health Board performs well against health targets
20 / 05 / 2010 The West Coast District Health Board has figured well in the Ministry of Health's third quarter figures on District Health Board performance against the six Government health targets. Details...
Medical Students in Greymouth 'teleport' to students and teachers around NZ
19 / 05 / 2010 Thanks to help from both Solid Energy and the West Coast District Health Board (WCDHB) the Coast's three resident year 5 medical students will be able to continue presentations, seminars and lectures with their teachers and colleagues over a special medical video network. Details...
Senior Clinical Appointments
19 / 05 / 2010 The West Coast District Health Board is pleased to announce the appointment of two West Coast doctors to senior roles within the organisation. Details...
Better, sooner, more convenient primary health care for the West Coast
18 / 05 / 2010 Better, sooner and more convenient primary health care will be the result if the proposal developed by the West Coast Primary Health Organisation in collaboration with the West Coast District Health Board is implemented in the future. Details...
CDHB to Provide Chief Executive Services to the West Coast
27 / 04 / 2010 Collaboration between the West Coast and Canterbury District Health Boards has moved a step closer with an agreement between both organisations to share a Chief Executive from 1 July. Details...
Surgery Back On Schedule
20 / 04 / 2010 Surgery is back on schedule at the West Coast District Health Board following replacement of three of four anaesthetic machines at Grey Base Hospital. Details...
Emergency Planning Exercise Tests Hospital Staff
20 / 04 / 2010 Staff from Grey Base Hospital dealt with 29 patients from a crash between a car and the Tranz Alpine Train on Wednesday morning. Details...
Anaesthetic Machine Issues
08 / 04 / 2010 Anaesthetic machines at Grey Base Hospital are having reliability issues despite recent technical servicing. Details...
Industrial Action
06 / 04 / 2010 The West Coast District Health Board has received notice from the Association of Professionals and Executive Employees (APEX) that radiographers will not be available for after-hours work from Tuesday 6 April until Monday 19 April. Details...
Child Health Services
06 / 04 / 2010 South Island Children's Health Service representatives have come together to ensure services are available to children in the future, wherever they live in South Island. Details...
Closure of Dobson Medical Clinic
19 / 03 / 2010 The West Coast District Health Board is closing the Dobson Medical Clinic as a recently completed audit has determined that the building is no longer fit to be used as a health clinic. The clinic will close from 12 April 2010. Details...
Industrial Action
12 / 03 / 2010 The West Coast District Health Board has received note from the Association of Professionals and Executive Employees (APEX) that radiographers will not be available for after-hours work for one week commencing Monday 15 March. Details...
LECG Report
12 / 03 / 2010 At the 11 March meeting of the West Coast District Health Board 25 submissions on the independent LECG report “Analysis of options: Models of care for West Coast District Health Board” were received. Details...
Walk2Work - an event promoting the positive benefits of gentle physical exercise on the body, environment and the pocket!
02 / 03 / 2010 On the 10th of March 2010, thousands of people across New Zealand will leave their cars at home and Walk2Work with friends, family and colleagues. Details...
West Coast District Health Board performance against health targets
01 / 03 / 2010 The Ministry of Health has released its second quarterly figures on District Health Board performance against the six government health targets. Details...
Independent Report on Sustainability Project Received
28 / 01 / 2010 A report into the future provision of health services by West Coast District Health Board has recommended that Grey Base Hospital should become a ‘centre of excellence’ for rural health, with strong clinical back up from the Canterbury District Health Board. Details...
“The Itch” numbers rise on the West Coast
21 / 12 / 2009 Staff have noticed a large increase in the occurrence of scabies, also known as “the itch”, amongst patients presenting at West Coast District Health Board facilities. Details...
Canterbury-West Coast DHB collaboration boosted
18 / 12 / 2009 Health Minister Tony Ryall has announced that Canterbury DHB board member, Mr Peter Ballantyne has been cross-appointed to the West Coast DHB Details...
Cervical cancer immunisation available to West Coast girls again in 2010
15 / 12 / 2009 Next year public health nurses will be back in schools on the West Coast, offering free Human papillomavirus (HPV) immunisation to girls. Details...
2009 Innovation and Excellence Awards Results
26 / 11 / 2009 In a ceremony held in Greymouth last evening, awards were presented to health service providers recognising groups for their innovative projects and the excellence of the service they provide. Details...
West Coast District Health Board Performance Against Health Targets
23 / 11 / 2009 The Ministry of Health today released figures on District Health Board performance against the six government health targets. Details...
Fresh Future Trust Presentation
06 / 11 / 2009 West Coast children’s hospital services will benefit significantly as the result of this year’s Fresh Future Appeal. Details...
New mobile clinics improve access to dental services for rural West Coast children
05 / 11 / 2009 The arrival of two new mobile dental clinics at the West Coast District Health Board will provide improved oral health services to students of rural West Coast schools. A greater emphasis on prevention and education is the core of the new service. Details...
Developing Primary Care on the West Coast
04 / 11 / 2009 West Coast Primary Health Organisation Chief Executive Officer Andrea Baker was informed today that the PHO proposal to the Ministry of Health’s call for Expressions of Interest for changing models of primary health care was accepted by a team of experts appointed by the Minister of Health. Details...
Swine Flu Update 23
23 / 10 / 2009 The West Coast has generally fared well during the pandemic influenza outbreak over the winter. The sensible precautions taken certainly prevented the illness from gaining a foothold here. Details...
Rural General Practice Rural Hospital Medicine Training Programme
22 / 10 / 2009 In December 2009 the West Coast District Health Board (WCDHB) will be commencing the first year of its Rural General Practitioner/ Rural Hospital Medicine Training Programme. Details...
Buller Health, Hokitika Health and Reefton Health Phone System Change
21 / 10 / 2009 Following the successful changeover of the internal phone system at Grey Base Hospital, West Coast District Health Board facilities at Buller Health, Hokitika Health and Reefton Health will also change. Details...
Grey Base Hospital Phone System Change
16 / 10 / 2009 On Monday 19 October at 8pm, Grey Base Hospital will be changing its internal phone system. Details...
The Safe Staffing and Healthy Workplaces demonstration site initiative begins in earnest this week
29 / 09 / 2009 The West Coast District Health Board has recently been chosen to become a Safe Staffing Healthy Workplace (SSHW) national Demonstration Site. Details...
Human Resources Collaboration
10 / 09 / 2009 West Coast District Health Board (WCDHB) and Canterbury District Health Board (CDHB) have today announced an arrangement for greater collaboration involving all aspects of Human Resources management and related support services. Details...
Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
24 / 08 / 2009 The West Coast currently has the highest rates of whooping cough (pertussis) in New Zealand, more than three times higher than the national rate. Details...
Kaumatua Hui Held in Greymouth
19 / 08 / 2009 A health and wellness hui for Kaumatua was held at Shantytown in Greymouth on Saturday 8 August, with approximately 50 Kaumatua from all over the West Coast in attendance. Details...
Swine Flu Update 22
11 / 08 / 2009 The number of people confirmed to have swine influenza A (H1N1) on the West Coast currently stands at fifty-two, up one from a week ago. Details...
MMR Vaccinations Brought Forward to Contain Measles Outbreak
10 / 08 / 2009 The timing of Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccinations is being brought forward for West Coast infants to give children greater protection from measles during the current outbreak. Details...
Survey looks into oral health of New Zealanders
07 / 08 / 2009 The roll-out continues in the West Coast. About 2000 adults and 1000 children are expected to take part in the 2009 New Zealand Oral Health Survey that is being conducted from March to November 2009. Details...
Fresh Future Appeal launched!
07 / 08 / 2009 The West Coast portion of the 2009 Fresh Future Appeal was launched at McBrearty Ward, Grey Base Hospital today. The appeal is run by the Progressive Enterprises' family of supermarkets and Dick Smith stores throughout New Zealand in August and September for paediatric care in various NZ hospitals, with staff organising a broad and imaginative range of fundraising activities. Details...
Grey District Library welcomes breastfeeding mothers
06 / 08 / 2009 'The Big Latch-on', the main event for World Breastfeeding Week is taking place in Greymouth on Friday August 7th at 10.30am. The Breastfeeding Interest Group has been campaigning for a breastfeeding space in the Greymouth CBD following the relocation of the Plunket Rooms in 2008. Details...
Swine Flu Update 21
05 / 08 / 2009 The numbers of people diagnosed with swine influenza A(H1N1) on the West Coast currently stands at fifty-one confirmed cases. Details...
The Big Latch On - Friday 7th August 2009
04 / 08 / 2009 West Coast mothers are taking part in the annual breastfeeding marathon as they latch their babies on for a feed on Friday August the 7th. Details...
Swine Flu Update 20
31 / 07 / 2009 The numbers of people diagnosed with swine influenza A(H1N1) on the West Coast stands at forty eight confirmed cases. Details...
Fresh Future Appeal
31 / 07 / 2009 The West Coast portion of the 2009 Fresh Future Appeal will be launched at McBrearty Ward, Grey Base Hospital at 10.30 am on Thursday 6 August. Details...
Swine Flu Update 19
28 / 07 / 2009 The numbers of people diagnosed with swine influenza A(H1N1) on the West Coast stands at forty seven confirmed cases. Details...
Foote Ward Not to Close
23 / 07 / 2009 The West Coast District Health Board's plans for managing the General Practitioner shortage in Westport do not involve closure of Buller Health's Foote Ward. Details...
Swine Flu Update 18
23 / 07 / 2009 The numbers of people diagnosed with swine influenza A(H1N1) on the West Coast still stands at forty confirmed cases from both urban and rural areas. Details...
Greymouth Maori Mum4Mum Graduates
23 / 07 / 2009 The first Maori Mum4Mum breastfeeding peer counselling course to be held in Greymouth has finished, and four women graduated at a ceremony at the West Coast PHO on Tuesday 21st July. Mum4mum is a breastfeeding peer support programme that is a joint initiative supported by the West Coast District Health Board and the West Coast Primary Health Organisation. Details...
Advisory Committee Appointments
20 / 07 / 2009 The West Coast District Health Board wishes to advise, the following appointments to the West Coast District Health Board Advisory Committees, were approved at the June 2009 Board meeting. Details...
Swine Flu Update 17
20 / 07 / 2009 The numbers of people diagnosed with swine influenza A(H1N1) on the West Coast continues to rise with forty confirmed cases from both urban and rural areas. Details...
Mental Health Inpatient Unit at West Coast District Health Board
20 / 07 / 2009 Due to increasing staff shortages the West Coast District Health Board is to reduce the numbers of beds available in the Manaakitanga Mental Health Inpatient Unit at Grey Base Hospital from nine to five from 20th July 2009. Details...
Importance of On-Time Immunisation
08 / 07 / 2009 Reports of a recent measles outbreak in Christchurch highlight the risks associated with not completing a full course of childhood immunisations. Details...
West Coast DHB and CPIT combine forces for new nursing initiative
02 / 07 / 2009 Prospective students in the greater Canterbury and West Coast regions wanting to study CPIT’s Bachelor of Nursing off-site, can now do so thanks to a new blended-delivery training scheme initiated by CPIT and the West Coast District Health Board. Details...
Swine Flu Update 16
02 / 07 / 2009 The numbers of people diagnosed with swine influenza A(H1N1) on the West Coast continues to rise with six confirmed cases from both urban and rural areas. Details...
Progress on DHB Collaboration
01 / 07 / 2009 Collaboration between the West Coast and Nelson Marlborough District Health Boards could now extend to include Canterbury District Health Board. This follows the announcement in early May 2009 that Nelson Marlborough and West Coast DHBs were seeking greater levels of collaboration both to effect cost savings and to support clinical delivery. Details...
Swine Flu Update 15
01 / 07 / 2009 Currently on the West Coast we have had one confirmed case and four probable cases of swine influenza A(H1N1) in the Westport area and one confirmed case and one probable cases in the Greymouth area. Details...
Swine Flu Update 14
30 / 06 / 2009 Currently on the West Coast we have had one confirmed case and four probable cases of swine influenza A(H1N1) in the Westport area and one confirmed case and two probable cases in the Greymouth area. Details...
Mental Health Unit to become Smokefree
30 / 06 / 2009 After much planning and preparation, the Mental Health unit at Grey Base Hospital is becoming smokefree on 1 July 2009. Details...
Swine Flu Update 13
29 / 06 / 2009 A second case of swine influenza A (H1N1) has been confirmed on the West Coast with a male teenager in the Greymouth area both testing positive for the virus. Details...
Safe Staffing and Healthy Workplaces
29 / 06 / 2009 The West Coast District Health Board has recently been chosen to become a Safe Staffing Healthy Workplace (SSHW) national Demonstration Site. Details...
HEHA nutrition funding benefits children on the West Coast
29 / 06 / 2009 Healthy Eating – Healthy Action (HEHA) promotes an environment and society where individuals, families and whanau, and communities are supported to eat well, live physically active lives, and attain and maintain a healthy body weight. Details...
Disruption to Elective Services
24 / 06 / 2009 Some of the elective surgery that was planned for next week at Grey Base Hospital has had to be postponed. Those patients affected by this disruption will have been already contacted by the District Health Board. Details...
A new initiative for Maori pregnant women and their whanau living on the Coast
24 / 06 / 2009 A Matauranga Haputanga - antenatal education programme is to be established on the West Coast. Details...
Swine Flu Update 12
23 / 06 / 2009 The West Coast still only has one confirmed case of non-seasonal swine influenza A (H1N1) in Westport. There are four other probable cases in Westport who were contacts of the confirmed case. However, there are indicators strongly suggesting that the novel influenza virus is already circulating on the Coast. Details...
Swine Flu Update 11
22 / 06 / 2009 Both seasonal influenza and non-seasonal Influenza A (H1N1) virus are now spreading in some of our communities. The overall severity of the disease is moderate. The West Coast has had its first confirmed case of non-seasonal swine influenza A (H1N1) in Westport. The person did not require hospitalisation and is recovering. Details...
Swine Flu Update 10
19 / 06 / 2009 Currently on the West Coast there are no people in quarantine for swine influenza A (H1N1). Test results received yesterday have all come back negative for swine influenza A (H1N1). Details...
Swine Flu Update 9
18 / 06 / 2009 Currently on the West Coast there are three people awaiting test results for swine influenza A (H1N1). One (previously advised) is from Westport and two from the Grey District. Details...
Swine Flu Information Regarding Bus Travellers Held In Quarantine At Hokitika
15 / 06 / 2009 Tests have confirmed that the isolated person suspected to have swine flu did not have swine flu, so the travellers are being released from their period of quarantine and will be free to continue their journey. Details...
Swine Influenza Update 7
09 / 06 / 2009 The first two cases of swine flu Influenza A, (H1N1) have now been confirmed in the South Island. Details...
Preferred Provider Announced
04 / 06 / 2009 The West Coast District Health Board has selected Richmond New Zealand as the preferred provider for the future provision of Peer-led Activity and Living Skills Services for mental health service users on the West Coast. Details...
Mental Health Support Services to be Maintained
20 / 05 / 2009 The West Coast District Health Board is changing Mental Health rehabilitation services on the West Coast to encompass a broader range of services to meet the diverse rehabilitation needs of service users. Details...
Chief Executive Appointment
11 / 05 / 2009 The West Coast District Health Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Joel George as Chief Executive Officer. Details...
Swine Influenza Update 6
08 / 05 / 2009 Currently there are no persons on the West Coast in isolation or quarantine as the result of swine flu (influenza A, H1N1). A suspected case was tested during the week but was found not to be influenza A. Details...
DHBs to Explore Greater Collaboration
08 / 05 / 2009 The Nelson Marlborough and West Coast District Health Boards are to investigate the benefits of greater collaboration say their respective chairpersons – Suzanne Win of NMDHB and Rex Williams of West Coast DHB. Details...
Swine Influenza Update 5
05 / 05 / 2009 The West Coast family that had been in North America and had a family member with flu-like symptoms has received test results confirming that they do not have Type A influenza. The family have since been released from quarantine. Details...
Swine Influenza Update 4
01 / 05 / 2009 All of the West Coast people who were associated with flight NZ 1 have completed their course of Tamiflu and are being released from home quarantine. Details...
Swine Influenza Update 3
30 / 04 / 2009 The four West Coast people who were associated with flight NZ 1 are still without any flu–like symptoms in home quarantine and are completing a course of Tamiflu. Details...
Swine Influenza Update 2
29 / 04 / 2009 The identification of swine flu amongst some of the students from Rangitoto College off flight NZ1 has not changed the precautionary response of health authorities on the West Coast. Details...
Swine Influenza Update 1
28 / 04 / 2009 West Coast Health authorities are continuing to monitor the New Zealand situation regarding the possible swine influenza closely. Details...
Influenza-like Illness
27 / 04 / 2009 Health authorities on the West Coast are taking the possible arrival in New Zealand of a new strain of influenza seriously. Details...
Surgical Ward Reopens
26 / 03 / 2009 The West Coast District Health Board is to reopen Barclay Ward at Grey Base Hospital as a Monday to Friday surgical ward from Monday 30 March 2009. Details...
Obstetric and Gynaecology Services Update
25 / 03 / 2009 From 5 pm Monday 30 March until Friday 3 April 2009, the West Coast District Health Board will not have Obstetric and Gynaecology specialists at Grey Base Hospital. Details...
Breast Screening Unit Receives Blessing
24 / 03 / 2009 In a short ceremony on Monday 23 March the new Breastscreening unit at Grey Base Hospital received a blessing from local maori enabling the commissioning process for the facility to go ahead. Details...
Update on the Sustainability Project
20 / 03 / 2009 The West Coast District Health Board and Ministry of Health continue to work towards finalisation of the Sustainability Project. Details...
Chief Executive Appointment
20 / 03 / 2009 The recruitment process for a permanent Chief Executive Officer for the West Coast District Health Board is still in progress. Details...
Obstetric and Gynaecology Services at the WCDHB
18 / 03 / 2009 From 4 pm Thursday 19 March until 10 am Friday 20 March 2009, the West Coast District Health Board will not have Obstetric and Gynaecology specialists at Grey Base Hospital. Details...
Activity Centres on the West Coast
16 / 03 / 2009 The provision of community based mental health support services is currently subject to a tendering process by the West Coast District Health Board. The process is around the future provision of peer led activity and living skills services and education and employment support services. Details...
West Coast District Health Board Joins Effort to Strengthen South Island Health Services
04 / 03 / 2009 South Island District Health Boards have come together to plan long-term, viable health services across the mainland. Details...
Greymouth Doctor Provides Leadership in National Bowel Screening Programme
24 / 02 / 2009 Greymouth General Practitioner and West Coast District Health Board General Practitioner Liaison Officer, Dr Carol Atmore has been seconded to the Ministry of Health to become Clinical Director of the National Bowel Cancer Screening Programme. Details...
Orthopaedic Cover at Grey Base Hospital
16 / 02 / 2009 The West Coast District Health Board wishes to advise that due to arranged locum staff now being unavailable, there will be no on-site, acute orthopaedic services available from 3pm Sunday 15 February until 8pm on Friday 20 February. Details...
Business Cases
11 / 02 / 2009 West Coast District Health Board has now released the business cases for the proposed redevelopment of Buller Health and Greymouth Base Hospital Details...
Orthopaedic Cover at Grey Base Hospital
09 / 02 / 2009 The West Coast District Health Board wishes to advise that due to arranged locum staff now being unavailable, there will be no on-site, acute orthopaedic services available until 8 am on Friday 13 February. Details...
Health Scholarships announced
30 / 01 / 2009 West Coast District Health Board chair Rex Williams presented Health Scholarships to the recipients of the 2009 awards at a ceremony at Grey Base Hospital on Wednesday 28 January. Details...
School Based Immunisation
26 / 01 / 2009 The immunisation programme of young women to give protection against the cervical cancer causing virus HPV (human papillomavirus), will start in schools early March. Details...
House Surgeon Receives Rhodes Scholarship
12 / 01 / 2009 West Coast District Health Board House surgeon, Dr Peter Cox has a clear idea of where he is going in 2009. Peter has been awarded a prestigious Rhodes Scholarship, which will see him heading off to Oxford University in mid-year. Details...
Wahine Pounamu - Walking the Talk
06 / 01 / 2009 Three teachers from Greymouth High School have taken up the challenge to walk the Athens Marathon this year. Following an inspirational talk from a group of Maori women from Christchurch six months ago, Teena Henderson, Rachelle Owen-Cooper and Tina Singer are making progress towards achieving their goal. Details...
2008 Innovation and Excellence Awards Winners
20 / 11 / 2008 Acting Chief Executive Joel George expressed his pleasure at the high quality of the projects submitted for the second year of the West Coast District Health Board’s Innovation and Excellence Awards. Details...
Carelink Launched
18 / 11 / 2008 The West Coast District Health Board launched its Carelink service in Greymouth yesterday. Carelink provides Needs Assessment and Service Co-ordination (NASC) for people who have an identified need for long term support services. Details...
New Human Resources Manager
18 / 11 / 2008 The West Coast District Health Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Kim O’Keefe as Human Resources Manager. Details...
Fresh Future Trust Cheque Presented to WCDHB
14 / 11 / 2008 On Wednesday 12 November Fresh Future Trust chair Ruth Krippner and Progressive Enterprises representative Fred Hawthorn presented a cheque to the West Coast District Health Board. Details...
Fresh Future Trust
11 / 11 / 2008 Staff of Parfitt paediatric ward and the McBrearty and Kawatiri maternity facilities are looking forward in anticipation to the presentation, on Wednesday 12 November, of a cheque from the Fresh Future Trust. Details...
West Coast Project wins NZ Health Innovation Award
06 / 11 / 2008 The West Coast District Health Board is delighted to announce that at a gala dinner in Wellington last evening its project “Alternative Pathways for New Patients” won the Excellence in Process Improvement Award at the New Zealand Health Innovation Awards. Details...
Gardeners Reminded to Take Precautions When Using Potting Mix
24 / 10 / 2008 The Ministry of Health is reminding gardening enthusiasts about the dangers of using potting mix without taking the necessary precautions following the recent increase in case numbers for legionellosis (also known as Legionnaire’s disease) over the past two to three weeks. Details...
New Appointments in the Buller Region
02 / 10 / 2008 The West Coast District Health Board is happy to announce the appointment of three new doctors to provide healthcare to the people of the Buller area. Details...
2008 Excellence and Innovation Health Awards
30 / 09 / 2008 The West Coast District Health Board is running the Excellence and Innovation Health Awards, this year in association with the ACC, and is seeking nominations. Details...
Portable Monitor Gifted To Improve Patient Care
24 / 09 / 2008 Joel George, West Coast District Health Board Chief Executive, recently received the gift of a portable Dash 3000 monitor from the Franz Josef Glacier Community Trust. Details...
Healthy Drinks For Children? – Test Your Knowledge
24 / 09 / 2008 Is water a healthy drink? What about milk? Should my children be drinking juice? How often should kids be drinking fizzy drinks? Details...
Education for Enterprise Project Highly Successful
22 / 09 / 2008 Two Greymouth High accounting students, Stacey Bowden and Sam MacDonald have been working with finance department staff from the West Coast District Health Board to fine tune processes and develop a cost model for the hospital laundry. Details...
Mental Health Peer Support Service Announced
19 / 09 / 2008 The West Coast District Health Board today announced that Pact West Coast has been selected as the successful provider of Mental Health consumer advisory and peer support services for the West Coast. Details...
Mental Health Peer Support Service Announced
19 / 09 / 2008 The West Coast District Health Board today announced that Pact West Coast has been selected as the successful provider of Mental Health consumer advisory and peer support services for the West Coast. Details...
Elective Caesarean Births for West Coast Women
10 / 09 / 2008 Negotiations by the West Coast District Health Board have secured access for West Coast women requiring elective caesarean sections at St George Hospital in Christchurch. Details...
Elective Caesarean Births for West Coast Women
10 / 09 / 2008 Negotiations by the West Coast District Health Board have secured access for West Coast women requiring elective caesarean sections at St George Hospital in Christchurch. Details...
Update on Surgery at Grey Base Hospital
09 / 09 / 2008 There will be some delays to surgery this week at the West Coast District Health Board’s Grey Base Hospital as all theatre staff await clearance regarding their MRSA status. Details...
Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) Update
08 / 09 / 2008 All operating theatres at Grey base Hospital have now been thoroughly cleaned and samples tested for MRSA contamination. The results indicate the areas to be clear and the theatres have reopened for surgery. Details...
HEHA Bikes Get West Coast District Health Board Staff Active
05 / 09 / 2008 Staff at the West Coast DHB recently got a helping hand to get them more physically active with the purchase of five new HEHA-branded bikes through the Healthy Eating – Healthy Action (HEHA) Programme. Details...
Suspension of Surgery at Grey Base Hospital
05 / 09 / 2008 Infection control staff at Grey Base Hospital have identified that a visiting clinician has tested positive to Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA). Details...
O&G Situation at West Coast DHB
25 / 08 / 2008 For the month of August, Grey Base Hospital will offer all its usual range of Obstetric and Gynaecological services with West Coast DHB specialist staff and regular locums providing cover. Details...
Ward Merger
11 / 08 / 2008 The West Coast DHB at Grey Base Hospital will, from today, be merging the medical and surgical wards, as well as relocating the paediatrics unit for a period of up to two months. Details...
Greymouth Surgeon Saves Young Passenger
08 / 08 / 2008 West Coast DHB general surgeon Terry Mixter, had an eventful flight to the USA recently. During the flight a young girl became quite ill and began to have difficulty breathing. With the assistance of an A&E nurse from Dunedin, who was also on the flight, they managed to administer some drugs which temporarily allowed the young girl to breathe. Details...
New Franz Josef Facility
07 / 08 / 2008 The West Coast DHB and St John are pleased to announce that both organisations have now approved the construction of a new joint facility for Franz Josef. Details...
Change in Food, Cleaning, Orderlies and Grounds contract
31 / 07 / 2008 The West Coast DHB wish to announce that they have selected new providers of Food, Cleaning, Orderlies and Grounds services from 1st October 2008. Details...
Fresh Future Appeal
30 / 07 / 2008 In 2008 the West Coast DHB is fortunate in being invited to become one of the recipients of the 2008 Fresh Futures Appeal. The appeal is run by the Progressive Enterprises family of supermarkets in August and September for paediatric care in various NZ hospitals. Details...
Clarification as to why the WCDHB is seeking to upgrade or replace Grey Base Hospital
28 / 07 / 2008 “People focussing exclusively on the seismic safety of Grey Base Hospital seem to have missed the point as to why the DHB is seeking to upgrade or replace the facility”, said Wayne Champion, General Manager of Corporate Services at the West Coast DHB. Details...
Interim financial result
25 / 07 / 2008 The West Coast District Health Board has recorded an interim full year deficit (subject to Audit) of $6.7 million for the 2007-08 financial year. Details...
Cisco, West Coast DHB and Gen-I Announce First Cisco HealthPresence Trial in New Zealand.
14 / 07 / 2008 Grey Base Hospital in Greymouth to Support Buller Health in Westport in First Patient-Care Delivery Solution of Its Kind Details...
New Standby Generator Commissioned
09 / 07 / 2008 Patients and visitors to Grey Base Hospital will notice some changes over this weekend 12 and 13 July as a new standby generator for the hospital is commissioned. Details...
West Coast DHB Announces New Acting CE
08 / 07 / 2008 The West Coast DHB is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Joel George as Acting CE of the DHB. Mr George will take up the position on 4 August 2008. Details...
Grey Base Hospital receives new OPG X-Ray machine
01 / 07 / 2008 The West Coast DHB Radiology Dept at Grey Base Hospital has been very fortunate to recently receive a new piece of equipment courtesy of the Christchurch Radiology Group. Details...
Telehealth - Bringing Specialists to Rural Areas
News Release on One News, Saturday, 23rd March
The use of telemedicine on the West Coast is world leading and the DHB should be very proud of how well it works.
Lorelei Mason, health reporter for TVNZ, met with Liaison Paediatrician Dr John Garrett and filmed a story about the success of the Transalpine Paediatric Service. Lorelei shot footage of John in Christchurch talking to a family in Buller. There was also a TVNZ cameraman at Buller Health filming the family talking with John. The news item was aired on One News, Saturday 23 March 2013.
Work is underway on expanding the use of telemedicine across a range of other services at the West Coast DHB.