Media release from the University of Auckland

The University of Auckland will launch a new model to deliver clinical services to the local community and to support its teaching and research, with a celebration event this evening at Tamaki Campus.

"The University has a long history of providing high-quality clinical services to the community as part of its teaching and research programmes in audiology, optometry, psychology, speech language therapy, and sports and exercise science" says Ms Tracey Reason, Manager of the University of Auckland Clinics.

"The clinics provide health services to the local community while also offering our students the real-world experience they need to develop their professional skills and helping to connect health researchers with people willing to participate in clinical studies," says Ms Reason.  

The university's clinical services range from cardiac rehabilitation programmes and support for athletes, to speech language therapy for children and adults with listening and speaking problems, hearing and tinnitus clinics, cochlear implant services, full eye examinations and vision assessments including spectacle and contact lens prescriptions, and counselling for people experiencing a range of a life issues.  

Until now the clinics have operated independently within their academic departments. Under the new centralised model they will be managed and operate as a single entity based at Tamaki Campus, with shared services such as reception and booking.

Optometry services will continue to be offered at the university's Grafton and Tamaki Campuses under the new model.

"The new Clinics at Tamaki model will streamline and improve service delivery and, over time, allow expansion of our clinical services. We anticipate that these changes will benefit local people who use our services as well as enhancing university teaching and research."

"Members of the community who attend the clinics can continue to expect high-quality health advice based on sound research, first-rate equipment, easily accessible facilities, and lower than average fees or sometimes no fees at all," says Ms Reason.

"Safety always comes first and students working in the clinics are supervised by clinical experts who are leaders in their field. We're dedicated to continually lifting our game in terms of the customer service we provide.

"We highly value the support of local people who are helping us to train confident, well-qualified health professionals. Ultimately their contribution will benefit communities around New Zealand that are served by our graduates."

The University of Auckland Clinics is a joint initiative of the Faculties of Science and Medical and Health Sciences and was created after an extensive review and consultation process.

For further information about The University of Auckland Clinics, including a full description of the services available and how to access them, visit the Clinics' website www.clinics.auckland.ac.nz