December 09, 2010

Health Assistance Offered To West Coast

West Coast healthcare providers have been receiving many offers of assistance and support following the tragedy at the Pike River Coal mine last month.

As the sad events of the mine explosion unfolded, the health system focus broadened to looking after its effects on the health and well-being of the whole West Coast community.

With the need for health support being ongoing, West Coast health service providers have taken advantage of some of the many offers of help made by healthcare workers from around the country. The majority of assistance has been received from the South Island, Canterbury in particular, although offers from as far afield as Wellington and Whitianga have been utilised.

Greymouth general practices have received assistance to ensure adequate GP and practice nurse cover until Christmas, to allow for the increase in demand that may eventuate as a result of the Pike River incident, and to relieve those practice staff that have been affected by the incident.

The West Coast PHO primary mental health team, which already has a long-term role in supporting the community, has also had staff numbers bolstered to cope with the increased demand for their services.

West Coast DHB Chief Medical Advisor, Dr Carol Atmore says the assistance offered has really been appreciated.

"It has been very reassuring to know that when we have identified additional requirements as a result of this tragedy, that there have been healthcare workers willing to offer their help in serving the people of the West Coast," Dr Atmore says.

ENDS

For further information please contact
West Coast DHB Media Liaison Amy Milne
on (03) 364-4122,