Calls for understanding as Covid anxiety grows in Tararua

Staff at Tararua Health Group have had abuse and threats from a small number of patients. Photo / Leanne Warr

Healthcare providers and retailers in Tararua are calling for understanding from their patients and customers.

The call comes after one healthcare provider, Tararua Health Group, reported in a social media post that a small number of patients had been abusing staff, which included threatening behaviour.

"While we acknowledge people have frustrations about vaccine mandates and the streaming of patients, we have a zero-tolerance policy regarding physical and verbal abuse. We will call the police and trespass threatening individuals when necessary.

"Whether you agree with the Government's response or not, our team is here to provide everyone — with no exceptions — the best possible healthcare."

The post stated that the team was following Ministry of Health guidelines to provide a safe space for people to receive the care they need.

"Our staff do not deserve abuse because of this. We are trying our best."

Dannevirke police had received one report of a man abusing health group staff after getting a vaccine.

Dannevirke Pharmacy owner Hamish Pankhurst said the majority of customers had been good but there were a few who were upset.

Staff had been "amazing" in helping those customers, he said.

He understood it was a tricky time for everyone and all the challenges around Covid could be stressful for some.

"Be compassionate, be kind. We're all working through this together," Pankhurst said.

"Our main goal is to serve the community the best we can."

It was understandable that people were on edge with Covid cases in the MidCentral District Health Board rohe, but as of today , none was in the Tararua district.

Tracey Collis - people are on edge. Photo / NZME

Mayor Tracey Collis said the situation was increasing people's anxiety.

She felt for staff in the health centres who had to deal with upset patients.

"They're doing their job and working incredibly hard to keep people safe."