More healthcare at home for elderly people has resulted in more than $6 million in Government funding for Hawke's Bay.
The 48 per cent increase - from $12.7m in 2008/2009 to $18.87m in 2016/2017 - reflects a shift to primary care as Hawke's Bay District Health Board seeks to keep people out of hospital.
The increased funding enables more older people to continue living in their own home and helps people recover from surgery at home.
Ministry of Health figures show the number of Hawke's Bay residents receiving home support services has risen from 3684 to 5080 clients this year, a 38 per cent increase during the period.
The number of hours of care is estimated to have increased from 595,900 to 683,100 this year - an increase of 87,200 hours.