CEO UPDATE Monday 8 June 2015
Winter’s here - it’s not too late to get your flu immunisation The recent wet and windy conditions are a reminder, in case we needed it, that winter is here. Over the last couple of years winter illnesses have hit Canterbury’s fragile health system hard. It’s a tribute to the amazing work of people from across the Canterbury Health System that we’ve managed to keep things going for our community.
unsettled claims. Those with unsettled claims report more health issues, say they argue with their partner more, and experience more financial problems.
To achieve our goal of providing the right care, by the right person, at the right time, in the right place we’ve improved the quality of data we collect. We now track hospital activity in real time, can pick up trends, and make incredibly informed decisions. This will be a key tool this winter in helping us to improve the flow of people through our system.
We don’t know how busy our health system will be this year, but we do know we will be busy. Thank you in advance for the work you’ll do keeping people well this winter.
The flu is something that puts pressure on our health system every winter. If you haven’t yet been immunised please take advantage of one of our free staff flu clinics. If you have been immunised, thank you - please encourage your friends and family to get vaccinated too. It’s one of the easiest ways we can relieve the pressure on our health system.
This week is Men’s Health Week – what better time for our male readers to make a time to see their general practice team for a ‘warrant of fitness’?
As we head into this winter we know that many Cantabrians are struggling. Last week The Press highlighted some sobering examples of people who are still being held back by the consequences of the earthquakes, and struggling to find secure, affordable housing. In so many cases it is ultimately the health system that ends up supporting the most vulnerable in our community. It’s important to appreciate that many of us are us are struggling and still need support. Research from the All Right? campaign shows that life is particularly tough for people with
It’s time to man up and get your health checked
If you haven’t been to your doctor recently, this is the week to pick up the phone and make an appointment. If you’re over 50 ask about a cardiovascular risk assessment. When working in busy roles in health, getting our own health niggles seen to isn’t always a priority, so why not make an effort to do something about it today? The Men’s Health Week website has all sorts of tips and advice on ways to stay healthy. Check out the What’s Your Score feature a quick quiz designed just for men. By getting proactive and taking preventative action you can reduce the danger of major health risks down the track.
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David Meates
CEO Canterbury District Health Board
In this issue
»» The human cost of unsettled earthquake claims...page 2.
»» Cycling in Cambodia for a good cause...page 7.
»» Facilities fast facts...page 3.
»» Another Dry July...page 9.
»» Early bird rate closing for conference...page 6.
»» VDI - your office in your pocket...page 11.
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