Reducing the Growing Burden of Inflammatory Bowel Disease in New Zealand
Authors Sherilee Kahui Suzanne Snively Mark Ternent
November 2017
The Crohn’s & Colitis New Zealand Charitable Trust (CCNZ) was established in early 2010 in a nationally coordinated way to respond to the needs of Crohn’s and colitis patients across New Zealand. From that small but dedicated group of individuals, it has grown steadily, with Crohn’s and colitis support groups now operating in thirteen regions throughout New Zealand, working collectively toward our goal, offering support through fellowship, education and participation in fundraising. CCNZ wants to see better care provided for people with IBD. Targeting the following four areas would assist in achieving this: 1. 2. 3. 4.
Earlier diagnosis Equitable access to healthcare specialists across all DHBs Better and equitable access to effective healthcare treatments and interventions Increased social connectedness for all patients and their families
As shown in this report, there is already sufficient evidence about the need for these areas to be addressed.