The two directors general to lead the future health agencies of Aotearoa in New Zealand have been appointed.
Fepulea’i Margie Apa has been appointed as interim CEO of Health New Zealand, and Riana Manuel (Ngāti Pūkenga, Ngāti Maru, Ngāti Kahungunu) has been appointed as interim CEO of Māori Health Authority.
“I congratulate the boards of directors of the interim entities for appointing Margie and Riana to these important roles,” said Minister of Health Andrew Little.
“The two CEOs have a wealth of experience and a wide range of skills that will be essential in building a health system so that people can get the health care they need, no matter who they are or where they are. live, “said Health Minister Andrew Little.
“Margie and Riana have strong ties to the Maori and Pacific communities that have been underserved by our healthcare system, which will be critical in addressing the disproportionate health issues that have long plagued our whānau,” said the Associate Minister. of Health, Peeni Henare.
“Tackling inequalities must be the responsibility of the entire health system, and we must ensure that these voices are represented at all levels and in all organizations. “
“Good progress is being made on the New Zealand Health Charter, the document that will define the values of the public health system, as well as the government health policy statement and an interim health plan,” Andrew said. Little.
“The local planning pilots will start early next year and the transfer of functions from DHB and the Ministry of Health will begin next year.
“Work on the financing of the system is well advanced, as indicated in last week’s announcement by the Minister of Finance,” said Andrew Little.
“These appointments show that this government remains committed to continuing the work necessary to reform the health care system to lay the foundations for a better future for all New Zealanders.
“We need a system that works for everyone, and that’s what we’re building,” said Andrew Little.
Health New Zealand and the Māori Health Authority will become permanent entities on July 1, 2022. Margie Apa and Riana Manuel are expected to begin their respective CEO roles in the first quarter of 2022.
