Media release from Association of Salaried Medical Specialists

"The decision of the South Canterbury District Health Board to terminate its contract with its Primary Health Organisation and take over the functions itself is a positive initiative," said Mr Ian Powell, Executive Director of the Association of Salaried Medical Specialists, today.

"This decision arises out of active engagement with a range of affected organisations including South Canterbury general practitioners.  If it had been imposed it would have risked going down like a lead balloon.  But the decision was developed through 'bottom up' consultation making it more likely to be supported and robust."

"Essentially the DHB is establishing its own internal primary care arm.  This removes an organisational barrier and should reduce transaction costs between GPs and the hospital.  It promises to enhance greater integration and collaboration between health professionals in primary, secondary and community care."

"Whether other DHBs should follow this initiative remains to be seen.  But we should all watch the South Canterbury innovation with interest to see what might be learnt from it" concluded Mr Powell.