Media Release from the Auckland Regional District Health Boards

The Auckland Regional District Health Boards (ARDHBs) have concluded the consultation process regarding community laboratory testing services in the Auckland region. This is the first consultation within the region to cover such a broad range of community laboratory matters, as the ARDHBs sought to gather feedback from
patients and the medical community.

The high level of response, with many comments and suggestions offered, will help shape the future development and ongoing improvement of this important service.
The consultation sought the views and opinions from patients, care givers, communities and health professionals on a number of areas that impact on the delivery of these services. Reflecting the in-depth analysis of the feedback, the consultation process received almost 15,000 responses.

In sum, 4,400 surveys, 8,000 emails and 33 letters were received from stakeholder organisations and individuals.
In addition the following public meetings were held:
· Three patient focus groups
· Two GP forums
· Meetings with PHO Chief Executives
· 24 public meetings
· Three meetings with the Chinese, Indian and Korean communities
· Three meetings with Council Community Boards.

Independent researcher Point Research contributed significantly to the production of the report which was also peer-reviewed by a leading academic from the University of Auckland's School of Population Health.

Key findings included:
Collection Centre locations: Concern was expressed around the reduction of collection centres, however other patients and organisations agreed that the current locations need to be reviewed.

Collection Centre hours: A common concern was around centres not being open early enough or during weekends. The feedback showed that factors such as inadequate opening hours and days open at the centres, put as many as one in five people off from having a sample taken, especially people in full time employment.

Paying for laboratory tests: The proposal that private patients (or their insurers) pay for their laboratory tests drew significant comment from patients and organisations. Most of this comment was in opposition to the removal of public funding for private patients.

Test results information: Many patients expressed dissatisfaction with the level of information provided and would like to see this improved.

Sample collection: There was extensive support for an electronic collection referral system, especially from health professionals, so long as the transfer and storage of information is secure and, with patient consent, it can be easily stored.

Workforce: It was found that within the pathology and laboratory workforce, morale is low and recommendations were put forward for remedying this.

Recommendations include; providing stability in the sector, research and career development.

Point of care testing, right test time and electronic referrals: There waswidespread support for these services provided that the costs and benefits are considered on a case by case basis.

The results from the consultation will be considered in future deliberations on laboratory services delivery within the Greater Auckland region.

The Waitemata, Auckland and Counties Manukau district health boards are committed to ensuring delivery of a service of the highest quality to patients within the Greater Auckland region.