Healthcare in Northland is in for a major shake-up on Friday when the region's two primary health organisations (PHOs) merge into one.
The new entity will combine all primary health (non-hospital) services under one banner, Mahitahi Hauora, by replacing the Far North's Te Tai Tokerau PHO and Whangārei's Manaia Health PHO.
The merger will also come with a renewed commitment by GPs, Māori health providers, iwi and the Northland District Health Board to work together.
Phillip Balmer, the new organisation's chief executive, said getting the best health outcomes for everyone in Northland and closing the equity gap for Māori required change at multiple levels within the health and social system.
That change included a broader focus on addressing the wider determinants of wellbeing, including social, economic, and environmental factors, and working with local communities to provide more comprehensive services.
