In Aotearoa, people have differences in health that are not only avoidable but unfair and unjust. Equity recognises different people with different levels of advantage require different approaches and resources to get equitable health outcomes.

This year there is an overall focus on equity through the plan for general practice. As we move towards a different way of measuring quality, we have made the decision to roll over the 2021-2022 goals over for the next 12 months. In addition we are making a small change to ensure there is a small amount of funding regularly going to practices to support quality activities.

Being smokefree is still one of the biggest positive changes a person can make for their health. We know for every 40 smokers offered brief advice one person will quit.

There are almost a quarter of a million people in New Zealand diagnosed with diabetes and another 100,000 who have it but don't know.

A patient portal is a secure online website for patients to access their health information and interact with their general practice team. Portal use encourages patient empowerment and self-management.

Lead HealthPathways region, Te Manawa Taki (Midland), has updated two of their diabetes pathways and incorporated points addressing inequity into their guidance.

The paediatric department at Taranaki Base Hospital has written guidelines for referrals when there are concerns with children's development. The guidance will help make sure the correct children are referred to the hospital and also highlights other services or routes for referrals if there are concerns.

The latest College of Nurses Aotearoa - CPD accredited eLearning module is now available to complete.

Find the direct access link to access Waikato Immsnet here.