01-05-2025
Tairāwhiti restores weekend urgent care with new GP service
'As always, those with medical emergencies should go directly to Gisborne Hospital's Emergency Department or call 111 for an ambulance.'
Brown said improving access to doctors and nurses was a key priority for this Government.
'We're taking action to make sure the people of Tairāwhiti can get the care they need – when and where they need it,' he said.
'Urgent care and after-hours services are vital for people with non-life-threatening conditions who still need prompt medical attention but cannot wait until the next day to be seen.
'This new service will both restore and expand access to urgent care on weekends and public holidays in the region, with weekday after-hours services to be added as workforce capacity allows.'
He said this service was also about easing pressure on Gisborne Hospital's emergency department during weekends and public holidays.
'It allows emergency teams to focus on life-threatening conditions, while people with less urgent needs can get timely care in the community.'
Brown said Gisborne Hospital had a relatively high number of presentations that were triaged as lower-acuity categories – four and five – compared to other hospitals across the country.
'Many of these patients will be better served through this new community-based urgent care option.
'I'm pleased that Health New Zealand, in partnership with the Te Rōpū Matua collective through Ngāti Porou Oranga, is able to provide the people of Tairāwhiti certainty and reassurance that after-hours care will be available now and into the future.
'This is all part of the Government's plan to ensure New Zealanders can access timely, quality healthcare.'
The chair of Te Rōpū Matua Rina Kerekere said it was really excited to have the new service announced.
'We have really been dedicated to creating long-term and sustainable healthcare solutions for all our whānau and community, for everyone in Tairāwhiti,' Kerekere said.
'Our approach prioritises whānau-centre[d] care, ensuring healthcare is accessible, equitable and easily aligned with needs of all our people.'
