Media release from West Coast DHB

Following submissions and feedback from the community, health professionals and other interested parties on the proposed Buller Integrated Family Health Centre (IFHC), the Board of the West Coast DHB has concluded that the Buller IFHC should be built on a single site and that aged care be combined under a single provider.

The Board also supported the associated development of detailed plans and costings for a new build on a single site.

A final decision regarding the site chosen for the new facility will be made at the March Board meeting once Board members have visited Westport and inspected the two proposed site options - the Buller Health and O'Conor Trust sites.

West Coast DHB Acting Chair Peter Ballantyne said that Friday's decision by the Board was a very important step towards a final choice on the provision of future health services. 

"The Board is determined to make the right decision for the people of the Buller area.  Giving Board members the opportunity to see the site options and facilities first hand will enable them to make a considered judgement when the issue is finalised at the March Board meeting.

Further meetings are planned for February between the DHB and the O'Conor Trust to continue a commitment to working together on aspects of this project. West Coast DHB Chief Executive David Meates reaffirmed that that staff, community and other interested parties will be kept aware of the situation as the final decision approaches.

As discussed at the public meetings the DHB will also enter into dialogue with potential private sector investors as it further investigates the opportunity of a private - public partnership for funding the new facility.