Pegasus 2025 - 27 Hune | June 2023 GP

Kia atawhai ki te tangata

MESSAGE FROM THE STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP TEAM

Tēnā koutou,

The Pegasus Health Workforce Development Scholarship award ceremony is always a highlight of the year. To hear from our recipients and their passion to drive real change in our health system is always a rewarding experience.

It was an honour to receive the COVID-19 Response Recognition Award from Manatū Hauora Ministry of Health. This is recognition of the work done by all of us in the Pegasus network – from those who were on the front line, to those who were redirected from their normal work to the COVID response.

The kaiāwhina and nursing pay disparity funding agreements are on their way to you this week. There are set requirements around using this funding and reporting on your workforce and information will be live on PegWorld this week. If you have any questions at all regarding this funding and the process, I encourage you to reach out to Practice Relationship Manager. They will be able to provide answers or point you in the right direction.

Ngā mihi nui,

LISA BRENNAN General Manager of Patient & Provider Services

Whāia te iti kahurangi, ki te tuohu koe, me he maunga teitei.

Seek the treasure that you value most dearly, if you bow your head, let it be to a lofty mountain.

2023 PEGASUS HEALTH WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SCHOLARSHIPS

The 22nd annual Pegasus Health Workforce Development Scholarship ceremony was held at Tūranga (Christchurch Main Library) on the evening of 8 June. The scholarships were established by Pegasus Health in 2001 to support Māori, Pasifika and CALD (Culturally and Linguistically Diverse) students who are currently studying towards a health qualification. This year, a total of 15 scholarships were granted, and the evening was brimming with laughter and a strong spirit of kotahitanga.

Pegasus Board Chair, Barry Bragg welcomed the recipients to the Pegasus whānau.

“You’ve been selected for a number of reasons, but in particular, your leadership potential and capability and your commitment to your community,” Barry said.

Keynote speaker Hector Matthews, Director Consumer Engagement and Whānau Voice, Te Whatu Ora, spoke about the importance of commitment to creating change. He implored the scholarship recipients to commit to making the health system in Aotearoa a place where Māori, Pasifika and CALD voices are heard and honoured.

Fijian recipient Esther Vuluma is studying towards a Bachelor of Counselling. She spoke from the heart and shared her feelings of not being able to find her place in a social services setting built by and for Pākehā.

“This is what I’ve always wanted to do. I hold onto this passion because I feel this is my purpose. It’s not easy, but I’m not just doing it for myself and

my community… I’m doing it for other indigenous cultures. And I know that our voices are of value, our culture is of value, and our heart is of value,” Esther said.

Two-time recipient Kirstyn MacDonald (Ngāti Kahungunu), spoke highly of Pegasus Health when passing on some words of advice to her fellow students.

“I highly encourage you to take any opportunity that Pegasus Health give you. They truly honour their word and support the transition of tauira into the workforce,” Kirstyn said.

PEGASUS HEALTH LAUNCHES ACUTE DEMAND NAVIGATION SERVICE TO ENHANCE PATIENT ACCESS TO CARE

Pegasus Health has recently introduced the Acute Demand Navigation Service, an initiative aimed at improving patient access to timely healthcare services. Over the past few weeks, the new service has seen a steady number of referrals, particularly from urgent care providers. This is giving patients options beyond urgent care or the Emergency Department (ED) for their health needs.

As winter illnesses increase, the pressure on our health system intensifies. Referring to the Acute Demand Navigation Service, actively

HOW DO I REFER?

contributes to reducing the strain on urgent care providers and ED. Your collaboration ensures that our limited resources are allocated to those who truly require immediate acute care, while milder cases receive appropriate attention through alternative pathways.

There is no requirement for you to register or sign-up with the Acute Demand Navigation Service before referring. However, we are requesting feedback on how you would like us to best manage your patients. For example, do you have a preferred telehealth provider when you are unavailable or at capacity? This information allows our team to become an extension of your practice and provide consistency in approach for patients. To complete the preferences form, go here.

The Acute Demand Navigation Service is dedicated to supporting you and your patients during the challenging winter season. We encourage you to take advantage of the service to streamline patient care and optimise

the allocation of resources within our health system. Together, we can navigate through the seasonal pressures and provide the best possible care for your patients and the community.

For more information visit www.pegasus.health.nz/adns/

PEGASUS HONOURED WITH COVID-19 RESPONSE

RECOGNITION

AWARD:

A TALE OF RESILIENCE, ADAPTABILITY, AND COMMUNITY UNITY

Pegasus Health has been honoured with the COVID-19 Response Recognition Award for the attitude and commitment to the community demonstrated during the height of the pandemic. To commemorate this achievement and acknowledge the mahi of our staff, Pegasus staff recently gathered for a morning tea celebration. It was a moment to recognise the hard work and dedication of every individual who has contributed over the years.

Lisa Brennan, General Manager Patient and Provider Services, summed up our journey with the analogy: ‘Health is like flying a plane while you’re trying to build it’.

“Navigating COVID-19 has been a constant process of adapting and

shaping our response to changing circumstances. Our collective efforts have been truly impressive!” said Lisa.

Pegasus established community testing centres, starting with Orchard Road and eventually expanding to various locations across the city, including Ashburton. Additionally, Pegasus turned their attention to vaccination efforts, ensuring the health and wellbeing of our community members.

This award recognises the efforts made by all in the Pegasus whānau. From our patient-facing teams in general practice and 24 Hour Surgery who displayed resilience and adaptability. To those behind the scenes who continued to work in a new virtual environment, enabling the continued delivery of essential healthcare services.

The spirit of unity and collaboration that was born out of the pressures of COVID-19 continues to thrive and shape the future of Pegasus.

TĀNE/MEN’S HEALTH WEEK

‘Reminding yourself to take a step back, pause and reflect on your physical and mental health’ was a common theme when asking Karl Belcher, Primary Mental Health Service Manager, and Michael McIlhone, Director of Nursing, what Tāne/Men’s Health Week means to them.

This year’s theme is all about ‘Little Steps can - and will - make big differences’ and so we had a kōrero with Karl and Michael about their experiences and the advice they can give!

MICHAEL MCILHONE DIRECTOR OF NURSING

2. ‘Little steps can – and will – make big differences’ is the theme for Men’s Health Week, what are some little steps you could give?

1. What are some common health challenges that men face, and what steps can they take to address or prevent them?

“Generally speaking, men tend to take a stoic approach to our health along the lines of “she’ll be right”. Many of us are either uncomfortable or don’t see the need to talk about our mental and physical health. Sometimes it’s age-related things like lack of exercise, high blood pressure, and the usual aches and pains. But it’s not just age-related, young men face challenges regarding alcohol and recreational drugs and the impact on their mental health. Engaging with and enrolling with a General Practice is your first step to wellness and managing your own health expectations.”

“Give some thought to a few things that might lead to significant change. How much am I drinking, am I eating a balanced healthy diet, are my vaccinations up to date, when was the last time I had my blood pressure taken, what’s my ideal weight, do I exercise regularly, who can I talk to when the going gets tough, do I get enough sleep, and finally where is my ‘happy place’?”

3. How do you believe the connection between physical and mental health impacts men, and what steps can men take to prioritise and maintain their overall wellbeing?

“The two can’t be separated as one definitely influences the other - both positively and negatively. The rule of thumb is if you are physically well chances are you are mentally in a reasonable space. If your mental health could be better, then it is more than likely impacting your physical health. Don’t be afraid to reach out, connect with someone you trust and value, often a conversation is all that’s needed to put everything into context.”

1. In your experience, what are some common challenges that men face when it comes to their mental health, and what advice do you have for them?

“We have made significant steps towards supporting men’s health, but in terms of seeking and reducing stigma around mental health, disparities still exist. The idea that “it’s weak to ask for help” or the idea of “not wanting to be a burden on others” can influence how we approach healthcare and helpseeking. I know personally I have experienced these throughout my life. However, over time I have learned to be mindful and treat my emotional and mental health as I do my physical, social, and spiritual health. I have learned to acknowledge these thoughts, narratives, and stories and to sit with them and chose a path that is aligned with my values.”

KARL BELCHER

PRIMARY MENTAL HEALTH

SERVICE MANAGER

2. Some men find it difficult to seek help or talk about their mental health issues. What can you share with men who may be hesitant to seek assistance?

“That it is ok to ask for help. Acknowledge there can be internal fears or anxieties around seeking help. However, this is a common response. Sometimes men will talk with their partner or a friend, and there are many opportunities we have in those roles to support men, such as acknowledging, and normalising emotions and experiences. Being open is not a one size fits all approach. Some people prefer talking with a friend or seeking a professional or doing something physical or active.

A great model that I have applied professionally and personally is Mason Durie’s Te Whare Tapa Whā. In this model wellbeing is seen as a wharenui (meeting house) with four walls. The Mental Health Foundation have some great resources on this.”

https://mentalhealth.org.nz/te-whare-tapa-wha

3. What role can friends, family and communities play in supporting men’s mental health, and how can they contribute to breaking down the stigma surrounding men’s mental health?

“I do think mates have an important role. Men tend to be more open while doing an activity. For example, walking, building something, etc. This can be a great opportunity where they feel comfortable to open a conversation and ask how they are doing. The more we do this the more we break down barriers.”

IMPROVING ACCESS TO HEALTH SERVICES FOR DISABLED PEOPLE

The 2013 Census revealed that 24% of New Zealanders have a disability, injury or illness lasting six months or more. Approximately a third of people accessing health services are disabled, and disabled people access health services twice as often as non-disabled people of the same age.

The Trans Alpine Health and Disability Action Plan was developed by the former Canterbury District Health Board following consultation with disabled people. The refreshed 2020-2030 Plan incorporates actions that will improve the experience of the health system for disabled people and their whānau. During the consultation for this plan, disabled people and their whānau advised that these things would make a difference:

• intervene early,

• increase disability awareness of staff,

• improve access to all forms of information and communication,

• give disabled people more control of their information,

• employ more disabled people in the workforce. They also wanted more focus on:

• those with the poorest health outcomes and level.

• those with complex health conditions, (e.g. learning and intellectual disability and older people).

• help to navigate the complex health and disability system.

• improved access to General Practice and Outpatients through technology such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams.

There is an increased emphasis on primary care settings in this refreshed Plan. Pegasus Health acknowledges our responsibility in relation to these actions and are undertaking a range of activities to support access to primary care.

• We are beginning by delivering a disability workshop as part of the Clinical Quality and Education (CQE) programme. This workshop has been informed by feedback from a survey to the Small Group Leaders and is being designed and delivered by disabled people.

• We are contracting external Subject Matter Experts to provide advice on accessibility. That includes printed and digital information, websites and social media, buildings and facilities, training and education, employment, etc.

• We will be seeking expressions of interest from a few Medical Practices and Pharmacies to audit in relation to accessibility. That would include your website, your information and your facilities.

EMBRACING KINDNESS AND SPREADING POSITIVITY

Last month, the team at Pegasus Health came together to celebrate Pink Shirt Day. Everyone enjoyed some shared kai and took the time to write heartfelt compliments about each other. It was an awesome reminder of the power of kindness and the importance of lifting each other up.

Lovey Ratima-Rapson, Practice Relationship Manager, opened the morning tea sharing how noticeably Pegasus has grown the awareness of Pink Shirt Day.

“We strongly believe in fostering a culture that embraces good, positive, and open communication. It’s a commitment that ensures everyone is treated with respect and where the celebration of diversity thrives,” Lovey said.

PRACTICE MANAGER UNABLE TO RESIST THE CALL OF PRIMARY HEALTH

Practice Manager, Angela Hendry, has come back ‘home’ to primary care. Since the early 90’s, Angela has worked within the health system starting at the Canterbury District Health Board before moving to a parttime reception role at Belfast Medical Centre. Thirty years was not enough time to prepare for what COVID-19 would bring.

“We had minimal time to get organised for the first lockdown. We changed the way we were working, literally overnight, by rolling up our sleeves and getting it done,” Angela said.

“During COVID we had patients who had no family to help them, so there were a couple of patients whom I went above and beyond for just to see the smiles on their faces. One man was having trouble with his

phone and didn’t know what do or who to call; ten minutes later I had it sorted for him. He was so grateful,” Angela said.

Like many working in primary health, Angela felt burnt out after the first lockdown so took a step back. By this point in her career, Angela was the Practice Manager at Riccarton Medical and had supported the team there to achieve Cornerstone Accreditation. Looking for a job that kept her in the health system but was less COVID-focused saw Angela take a role in private practice. Less than two years later she was ready to rejoin primary care.

“General Practice does have challenges but also a lot of rewards. Knowing that you are contributing to a large team of medical professionals helping people manage their health and their way in life is a great feeling,” Angela said. “I feel lucky to have been chosen for the Practice Manager role at The Doctors, Christchurch South. I am really looking forward to growing with the practice and continuing on with the great work that has already been done here.”

DEATH CERTIFICATION WEBINAR SUPPORTS GPS IN PROVIDING FASTER CLOSURE FOR WHĀNAU

Pegasus Health recently collaborated with Forensic Pathologists from Te Whatu Ora to develop a webinar aimed at helping General Practitioners (GPs) better understand the requirements for signing off on death certificates. The webinar was designed to provide GPs with a better understanding of the legal and practical aspects of signing a death certificate to help avoid unnecessary referral to the coroner and ensure faster closure for whānau.

Forensic Pathologists had raised concerns that many deaths from natural causes were being referred unnecessarily to the coroner. The webinar aimed to address this issue by providing GPs with a better understanding of when it is appropriate for them to sign off on a death certificate, thereby enabling whānau to have the body of their loved one remain with them and avoid an unnecessary delay.

Learning outcomes for the webinar included a better understanding of

how the coroner system works in New Zealand, recognition of deaths that require referral to the coroner and those that do not, formulation of an appropriate cause of death statement for common natural diseases, and explanation of what to do in uncertain situations.

Since the webinar, Forensic Pathologists have noticed that there seem to be fewer cases that were unnecessarily referred.

“We have noticed a slight downward trend in the number of unnecessary natural death referrals from 15 -20% to 13-16%, which is good news for the coronial system,” Leslie Anderson, Forensic Pathologist at Te Whatu Ora, said.

Of the cases that were referred to the coroner, GPs appeared to be less reluctant to sign off on the death certificate following discussion with the forensic pathologist or coroner’s staff, with referral happening for specific concerns such as the patient having medical history but was not expected to die at that time or it was unclear which problem caused death.

“We have appreciated the willingness of the primary care providers to sign off on clearly natural deaths, as it greatly benefits the whanau who are then spared the sometimes years-long ordeal of going through the coronial system,” said Leslie.

STUDENT INTERNS SUPPORT INFORMATION AND SERVICES FOR LOCAL COMMUNITIES

Pegasus Health has hosted seven student interns doing their health promotion and health science degrees at Ara and the University of Canterbury. The students were placed across Pegasus including with the Equity Leadership team and Refugee Health Service, Te Tumu Waiora, Smokefree ABC and Suicide Prevention teams. Internships are for either 75 hours over one semester or 130 hours over the year. Many of the students worked on projects within their own communities, such as the Pasifika, Chinese, Afghan, refugee, and disability communities to improve access to primary care information and services.

This year’s students worked on a wide range of projects: organising a hui for the Chinese community; running focus groups for the Afghan community; fitness and waka ama for Pasifika women; creating an infographic for whānau of young people living with chronic pain; creating information posters to support youth wellbeing; compiling information for Pegasus World; scoping holistic recalls in practices; and updating health sector and service information. Students presented on their internships recently and spoke of the useful learning gained from their internships with Pegasus, such as developing communication skills and confidence, engaging stakeholders, tailoring services to particular communities, time management, collaboration, and developing a better understanding of the health system.

L-R Back: Basnama Khan, Jasmine White, Anna Chen, Neave Munro. L-R Front: Belinda Singh, Lauren Hawke. Absent: Tessa Appo. | PEGASUS 2025

MAY ACTIVITY WITH PRACTICE PLUS

May activity with Practice Plus

In the month of May, Practice Plus provided consults to 116 patients enrolled with Pegasus Health practices. This accounts for approximately 10% of all Practice Plus consultations in May.

Patients in Quintile 1 are high users of Practice Plus. Rachel Fitzgerald, Practice Manager at Silverstream Medical Centre, shared that they have a voucher system in place to support any patients for whom finances are a barrier.

Overwhelmingly, the majority of patients accessing Practice Plus are

aged between 20 and 40 years of age. Hannah Brazil, Team Leader Operations Support Reception Services at 24 Hour Surgery, has not yet used Practice Plus, but she is confident to use the service when needed. She recently moved to a new medical centre and as part of her onboarding, she was introduced to Practice Plus and how to access it.

“The nurse explained the situations where you might not need to see your doctor, and could instead schedule a consult through Practice Plus,” Hannah said. Consider using Practice Plus to support planned and unplanned staff shortages over winter. Practice Plus is now able to offer in-hours, virtual locum support for dedicated practices where capacity is low. Contact support@practiceplus.nz to learn more about this service.

Pegasus 2025 is produced by the Communications Team at Pegasus Health (Charitable) Ltd. Content within Pegasus 2025 newsletters has been included with the approval of content providers therefore please contact us if you wish to reproduce or alter and transmit any of the information or images contained within. Contact communication@pegasus.org.nz