Tōtara Pegasus Health Pānui - March 2024

Welcome to Tōtara

Pegasus Health Pānui

Pegasus House stands on land that was previously a dense Tōtara forest. Tōtara is a name that honours our home’s past. Just like the Tōtara tree that thrives in the forest, soaring towards the sky and Ranginui, we create this newsletter with the aim of highlighting excellence in primary care and to support others to similarly flourish and strengthen.

Each issue of Tōtara Pegasus Health Pānui features stories, interviews, and new initiatives from across Waitaha Canterbury.

If you have a story, you would like our team to cover, please email communication@pegasus.health.nz

Tōtara Pegasus Health Pānui is produced by the Communications Team at Pegasus Health. Content within Tōtara Pegasus Health Pānui has been included with the approval of content providers. If you wish to reproduce, alter, or transmit any of the information or images contained within, please contact communication@pegasus.org.nz.

Pegasus Health

Pegasus Health is a charitable organisation committed to improving health outcomes for the people of Waitaha Canterbury, through innovation in service design and delivery, enabling and supporting primary care teams, collaboration with partners and continuous improvement.

We are dedicated to ensuring that all people have access to the primary health care they need, when they need it, closing the health equity gap and investing in healthy lifestyles and screening services.

Our purpose is that All people who live in Canterbury lead healthy lives, and our role is Together making Canterbury the best place to receive and provide

primary care.

Our values of Inclusive, Strive, Connection, and Integrity, are underpinned by our guiding principle of Manaakitanga, to create the fabric of our ways of being as an organisation.

Pegasus has a commitment to ensure that we overtly, purposefully, and strategically thread equity and Te Tiriti o Waitangi through all we do and how we operate.

We ensure equity is prioritised in our considerations, structures, decisions, and processes so that we are able to improve the health outcomes of all people and communities in Waitaha Canterbury.

Redwood Clinic celebrates success Page

Fulfilling

Building

Message from the Chief Executive,

Kim Sinclair-Morris

Tēnā koutou katoa,

Welcome to our refreshed pānui for 2024, Tōtara Pegasus Health Panui, formerly known as Pegasus 2025. Tōtara Pegasus Health Panui will be a bi-monthly newsletter as we highlight the mahi happening in our community and showcase the best of what practices across our primary care network are doing.

Earlier this month, we held our first all practice hui for 2024, which saw an excellent turnout. We were fortunate to have medical ethics leaders join us, shedding light on the risks and benefits of AI in a clinical setting. This topic sparked a lot of interest and discussion. I believe these hui’s are a fantastic way to bring people together and focus on areas of current interest. Please contact us if you have areas of interest you would like covered in these hui.

We farewelled our five Students in Over Summer in December. It is always a privilege to witness the emergence of the new generation of healthcare workers, bringing fresh perspectives. I look forward to working alongside them as they continue their journey in healthcare. You can read more about

the programme in this month’s issue. I hope you take the time to read the beautifully written poem by Zaria Grant, one of the students, on her reflection of the programme and experiences of Pegasus.

Our team have been working hard on this new pānui and we hope you enjoy its refreshed style. As always, we value feedback about what we do and welcome your comments on what you like and how we could improve.

We hope you enjoy this issue.

Ngā mihi nui,

Kim Sinclair-Morris

Pegasus Health Chief Executive Officer

Whaiwhia te kete mātauranga

Fill the basket of knowledge

Redwood Clinic celebrates success in foundation standard assessment

Redwood Clinic celebrates a historic achievement as they successfully pass the Foundation Standard on their initial assessment, a rare feat in the eyes of seasoned assessor Rachel McAllum.

The Foundation Standard is not an easy task to conquer. Melissa Pearson, Practice Manager at Redwood Clinic, generously shared their team’s experience and some valuable insights. Melissa explained effective Smartsheet use for self-assessment, early assessor access, and pre-assessment preparations played a pivotal role in their success. By engaging in open dialogue and seeking feedback from their assessor before the site visit, Redwood Clinic ensured a smoother process, allowing for corrections and reducing stress for their dedicated staff.

Melissa emphasised the importance of reading the Foundation Standard guidance resources in advance, which provided clarity and a shared understanding of the requirements. They also acknowledged the need for consistent document control and integrating updates from the RNZCGP into their preparations.

Allocating practice time and involving the entire team in the process proved vital to Redwood Clinic’s success. Assigning specific tasks, setting deadlines, and regular check-ins ensured progress was steadily made. A structured timetable, with dedicated time off on Wednesday afternoons, enabled focused work on indicators. Being proactive and organised allowed the clinic to approach the assessment day with a sense of preparedness and confidence and ensured they were able

to keep their primary focus on providing exceptional care for their patients, embodying the spirit of compassionate healthcare.

Early access to the assessment

Smartsheet, approximately two months prior to the assessment, fostered seamless communication, eliminating misinterpretations and incorrect uploads of evidence. The conscientiousness of Redwood Clinic’s preparation, coupled with their commitment to dedicate ample time to the workload, and the remarkable collaboration within the practice team were evident throughout the process. It was this dedication that created a thorough, efficient, and positive Foundation assessment experience and result.

Ka mau te wehi! (Congratulations!)

The team at Redwood Clinic

Fulfilling dreams through nursing:

Richy George’s journey

Richy George, a third-year nursing student, embraced nursing with his wife’s encouragement, juggling studies and parenting. As a Commonwealth gold medallist in powerlifting, he aims to integrate his passion with nursing.

Richy George, a dedicated third-year nursing student at Ara institute of Canterbury, is not only pursuing his passion for healthcare but also leaving a lasting impact on the communities he aspires to serve.

During the challenging COVID-19 lockdown period, Richy’s wife posed a transformative question: “Have you considered becoming a nurse?” Initially, Richy believed the path to nursing required extensive education, which seemed out of reach. However, with the encouragement of his wife, he embarked on a foundation course that paved the way for his journey into nursing.

“She knows that I have a deep passion for helping people, and she believed that nursing would allow me to fulfil that dream,” Richy said.

Juggling the demands of his studies and raising two lively boys is no easy feat. Richy acknowledges the challenges but remains resolute in his dedication to both his family and his education.

Beyond his academic pursuits, Richy has found solace and strength in powerlifting, a hobby he has cultivated since 2017. His prowess in the sport led him to represent New Zealand and claim the gold medal at the Commonwealth Championships. Now, Richy aspires to combine his passion for powerlifting with his nursing career. Recognising

his strengths in building therapeutic relationships, as well as his perseverance and discipline, Richy envisions using powerlifting as a means to empower and inspire patients on their healing journeys.

Richy’s ultimate goal is to work in primary care, specifically focusing on serving Māori and Pasifika communities. This aspiration reflects his deep-rooted desire to uplift and support local communities within Aotearoa. Richy aims to bridge the gaps in healthcare access and outcomes for these communities, ensuring that everyone receives the care they deserve.

Launch of Refugee Health Service

Pegasus Health recently launched its Refugee Health Service, a confidential and free health service supporting former refugees access healthcare in Christchurch and Ashburton.

“At Pegasus we aim to reduce inequity and remove barriers by having competent and well-funded wrap around services. The service is based on the feedback we received from the former refugee communities and those who support in health and social services. The service has set a national benchmark, expanding the eligibility criteria to include refugee groups beyond the annual quota refugees, ensuring broader access to health services, including for harder-to-reach populations,” said Lisa Brennan, Pegasus Health GM Patient & Provider Services.

The Refugee Health service support includes help with general practice (GP) enrolments, guidance through initial GP appointments, interpretation services, and assistance in accessing various health services including pharmacies, labs, maternity care, optometry, dental care and other health related support as needed. For more details on the service, click here.

Refugee Service launch event held at Pegasus Health on Tuesday 21 February, 2024.

Embracing diversity in pharmacy: A journey

of care and connection

Kopila Kafle, a Pegasus Health Workforce Development Scholarship recipient, epitomises the impact of dedication to patient-centered care.

In our diverse and ever-growing society, it is crucial to have healthcare professionals who reflect the communities they serve. Kopila Kafle, a 4th-year Bachelor of Pharmacy student and recipient of the Pegasus Health Workforce Development Scholarship in 2023, is a shining example of how passion, perseverance, and a commitment to patient-centered care can make a significant impact.

Coming from Nepal at the age of eight, Kopila was the oldest child in her family, entrusted with finding her own path. She describes it as a blessing to be a role model for her younger siblings, illustrating her determination to create change and make a positive impact. As she discovered her passion for connecting with people, Kopila realised that pharmacy would allow her to not only serve her community but also develop personal relationships with patients.

“Pharmacists really do patient-centered care. Unfortunately, doctors don’t have the same opportunity to spend long periods of time with a patient. Pharmacists are always there. We’ll find the answers for you. It’s the best way to connect with people,” Kopila said.

This dedication to putting the patient first, coupled with the accessibility of pharmacies, creates an environment for genuine connections to form. It is these

relationships that make a real difference in people’s lives.

Belonging to the Nepalese community in Christchurch, Kopila appreciates the personal relationships that exist within local pharmacies. Looking ahead, she is excited to foster connections within her community. With around 900 Nepalese individuals living in Canterbury, Kopila understands the significance of spreading awareness about health and well-being among her community members.

“All the pharmacies here have such a personal relationship with patients. I’m looking forward to creating relationships,” Kopila said.

Kopila’s journey exemplifies the importance of supporting students from Māori, Pasifika, and CALD backgrounds pursuing health qualifications. The Pegasus Health Workforce Development Scholarship has enabled her to further develop her skills, expand her knowledge, and ultimately make a difference in the lives of her community.

Equity and access: The impact of new cervical screening options

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The National Cervical Screening Programme introduced a self-test option, expanding choices for cervical screening. Piki te Ora Health Centre noted a positive response, and a surge in priority groups opting for the new self-test.

The National Cervical Screening Programme (NCSP) recently introduced new options for how cervical screening is done in New Zealand. From the 12th of September 2023, a new self-test was introduced, giving wāhine and people with a cervix, more options for cervical screening.

In Aotearoa New Zealand, 85% of people who develop cervical cancer have either never been screened or have not had regular screening. With the recent changes, the NCSP aims to reach more people and save more lives.

The cervical screening tests available are:

• self-test,

• self-test with assistance from a trained professional,

• liquid based cytology-test (previously referred to as a smear test).

Primary Care Nurse, Melanie Taylor, led the mahi at Piki te Ora Health Centre who were part of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) pilot programme.

Piki te Ora Health Centre have a high priority population. Melanie had high praise for the pilot programme.

“It was great! We screened so many wāhine that haven’t been screened before or hadn’t been screened for more than 5 years. During the pilot programme we recalled 500 people, and screened 197, which we were thrilled with as our

aim was to screen 200. We’ve got a really good group of passionate screeners here which makes a difference,” she said.

“We felt encouraged to have wāhine coming in after the pilot finished for their screening for the self-test. We ended up collating a list of wāhine and once the rollout went live we invited them back to be screened,” Melanie said.

“Since the rollout there has been a surge of priority groups opting for the new HPV self-test. Self-testing is an essential tool to help increase cervical screening rates, both to close the equity gap and to move closer to the government target of 80%, as we work toward eliminating cervical cancer,” Pegasus Health Population Health Specialist, Anna Thorpe, said.

Having three options for testing was also highly commended by Melanie. “Though most people go to the wharepaku (toilet) to do a self-test, some people will ask for the clinician to do the swab,” she said.

Tips from Melanie.

• The most important thing is a person’s understanding and making sure they are comfortable. Ensure that you adjust the conversation for their health literacy.

• At the beginning of the consult ask the question ‘Do you have any special names for your vagina?’ Then throughout the consult, continue to use that word so the person feels safe and respected.

• Instructions are provided for each kit; however, it can be easier to talk through the process. Asking questions such as, ‘Have you used a tampon or a self STI swab before?’, can help to ease hesitancy around self-testing.

Results of HPV screening following the introduction of new testing options.

• Large increases in Māori and Pacific routine screening.

• Increases for all underscreened groups in Canterbury.

• 4/5 of screens use an HPV swab, rather than an LBC smear.

As of the 12 September 2023, free cervical screening is now available for the following groups:

• Women and people with a cervix 30 years and over who have never had a screening test, or have not had a test in the past 5+ years,

• Anyone requiring a follow up,

• Māori and Pacific,

• Anyone who is a Community Services Card holder.

Piki te Ora Health Centre

“Read, Remove, Return” initiative

Pegasus Health and the Canterbury Community Pharmacy Group (CCPG) joined forces to launch the “Read, Remove, Return” campaign aimed at promoting the free and safe disposal of unused medications at pharmacies.

Leveraging social media and strategic poster placements in pharmacies and medical practices, the campaign highlights the significance of proper medication storage contributing to a safer home environment.

Keeping excess medication at home can pose risks, especially for children and elderly patients who may have multiple medications or frequent changes in their prescriptions. By removing these unused medicines from your home, you can reduce the risk of harm.

“Unused and unwanted medicines are not safe to recycle, reuse or donate, so if you have any unwanted medicines just bring them into your community pharmacy and they will dispose of them safely. This includes out of date medication and medicine for pets, which will also be accepted by pharmacies for safe disposal”, CCPG General Manager, Aarti Patel said.

While the campaign stresses the importance of safe disposal, it also addresses the significance of proper medication storage within our homes. To create a safer environment for everyone, it is recommended to store medicines in dry and secure locations, avoiding areas prone to dampness, such as bathroom cupboards. By taking this simple step, individuals can further protect their friends, flat mates, and whānau from potential dangers associated with improper storage.

The success of Pegasus Health and Canterbury Community Pharmacy Group’s “Read, Remove, Return” campaign lies in its collaboration. By educating individuals about the safe disposal of unused medicines and advocating for proper medication storage, this initiative ensures a safer and healthier environment for all.

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24 Hour Surgery enhances care with integration of new roles

Integration of Health Improvement Practitioners (HIPs) and Health Coaches enhances 24 Hour Surgery’s care, addressing

accessibility gaps.

In 2023, Health Improvement Practitioners (HIPs) and Health Coaches were introduced to the 24 Hour Surgery (24HS). Having these roles integrated into the 24HS service allows a more comprehensive level of care, particularly for unenrolled people who otherwise can’t access HIPs and Health Coaches, who are normally attached to general practice.

Experienced HIP, Tessa Bowden, is always attracted to new opportunities so when she heard that 24HS were introducing HIPs and Health Coaches to their team, she jumped at the chance to be involved.

“The team has been incredibly welcoming. They’re really willing to give it a go and refer people to the HIPs,” Tessa said. “The 24 Hour Surgery team work very well together, supporting each other and working together really collaboratively. It makes it an ideal place to work.”

There are three HIPs who share the workload in the 24HS. They come from a range of backgrounds: an occupational therapist, a social worker, and a practice nurse.

“We’ve each got our different strengths. We communicate and help each other find the right support for our patients,” Tessa said.

From diagnosis to advocacy:

Alena’s type 1 diabetes journey

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Alena’s Type 1 diabetes diagnosis at six brought challenges. However, prompt medical attention in Canterbury’s health system ensured proper management.

Alena’s diagnosis with Type 1 diabetes was an unexpected journey for her family, filled with challenges and the determination to raise awareness about this condition. We spoke with Jacinta, Alena’s mother, to share her story and experiences in the hope of helping other parents facing similar situations.

Alena, just six years old at the time, started presenting puzzling symptoms, constantly drinking water, becoming extremely lethargic and irritable, and losing weight despite maintaining a normal eating pattern.

“I would be googling ‘how to get my daughter to gain weight’, or ‘why is my daughter so irritable’. It wasn’t until I asked about all the symptoms together, that the term diabetes came up,” Jacinta said.

Jacinta took Alena to their general practitioner (GP) at Rolleston Central Health, who promptly performed a urine test which confirmed the condition of Type 1 Diabetes. Her GP immediately referred her to the Canterbury Paediatric Diabetes team.

“I remember the doctor telling us she was surprised Alena was standing in front of her looking as alert as she was and that we were to go straight to the hospital. We were lucky to seek help when we did as it could have been a very different story for us. Her blood glucose level was 29 mmol – well above

the healthy range of between 4 and 8,” Jacinta said.

A three-day hospital stay followed, during which they received intensive training on diabetes management. The training was for all Alena’s carers, and covered administering insulin, counting carbohydrates, managing hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia, and the consequences of poor blood glucose control. Alena also joined the Diabetes NZ youth group, connecting her with peers who understood her journey.

“We now have regular check-ups with a specialist team every three months to help manage Alena’s condition,” Jacinta said.

“We’re lucky to have a supportive public health system here in Canterbury, from our GP to our Paediatric Diabetes team, they’ve made this life-changing process a whole lot easier for our whānau. Now, counting carbs and monitoring blood sugars is our new normal.”

Jacinta offers advice to parents facing similar situations. “If your child has just been diagnosed, it does get easier, and don’t be too hard on yourself. I encourage you to connect with others who share similar stories as this has made a world of difference for Alena and myself.”

A message from Diabetes NZ:

People living with Type 1 is approximately ten percent of all those living with diabetes in Aotearoa New Zealand. For many it may initially go undiagnosed.

It is vital that type 1 diabetes is diagnosed early to avoid Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Diagnosis is by testing urine for glucose, which if positive is then followed up with a finger prick test for confirmation. Knowing the symptoms is vital to early diagnosis.

Symptoms and signs include:

• Excessive thirst,

• Excessive urination, including frequent wet nappies or bed wetting,

• Weight loss,

• Fatigue,

• Mood changes,

• Vision changes. They may also include:

• Abdominal pain,

• Nausea, vomiting,

• Skin infections,

• Thrush,

• Extreme hunger,

• Poor concentration and performance.

Building the next generation of equitable healthcare: Pegasus’ Students in Over Summer programme

Pegasus Health’s Students in Over Summer Programme welcomes 5 interns annually to enrich primary health perspectives. The 2023 cohort gained hands-on experience, visited health organisations, and honed soft skills.

Each year, Pegasus Health welcomes a group of 5 interns through the Students in Over Summer Programme, in an effort to enhance our pool of knowledge and offer fresh perspectives on equitable health in primary health.

The 2023 intake included nursing and counselling students, who gained handson experience across various Pegasus teams.

“It was great to get out there and immerse ourselves in this meaningful work,” Chrissie Mareraki, second-year nursing student at Ara said.

In addition to community involvement, our students were given opportunities to visit partnering health organisations such as Piki te Ora and He Waka Tapu. These visits offered them insights into primary care roles and connections with like-minded individuals.

Beyond clinical experience, the programme also focuses on the development of soft skills through workshops. These workshops covered crucial conversations, motivational speaking, and presentation skills.

“The thought of impromptu speeches used to make me sick, but thanks to the skills I gained in these workshops, I now feel more confident in my professional and personal interactions,” Jennifer Lawson, second-year nursing student at Ara, said.

As the internship concluded, the students presented their learnings and reflections. Many voiced a renewed commitment to equitable health as they advanced in their studies.

“Before being at Pegasus, my equity lens was blurry. But witnessing the work Pegasus does has given me hope, knowing that there are spaces that provide opportunities and advocate for making a difference,” Esther Vuluma, second-year counselling student at Vision College, said.

June (JV) Victor Wales, a second-year nursing student at Ara, expressed his appreciation for the programme.

“We were all placed in the right teams and given resources for our personal development. I felt the experience, the manaakitanga, and the love and empathy that the teams here have for their work.”

A Poetic Reflection by Zaria Grant, 2nd year nursing student at Ara

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Zaria chose to express her journey and insights through poetry. Her poem captures her experiences and the impact of the programme on her understanding of equitable healthcare. We are honoured to present her words.

When I began my journey as a student here, Lovey taught us how to be more confident and have no fear.

Something surprising she did teach, We had to get up and do an impromptu speech.

We learnt to be confident with Pepeha greetings, And we saw how a big team works together, in meetings.

From all the staff, vast knowledge was sharing, And I have seen a team who is passionate and caring.

Paul shed light on lives with a disability, Shared stats and ways, to promote selfability.

We chatted with Maria about people from the Pacific, At our school, we never discussed anything that specific.

Esther taught us about support for the rainbow community, That comes together to promote societal unity.

She told us about the great team from QTOPIA, And told us some stories about a world far from utopia.

We shared a moment with Tedros, delving into the lives of refugees, Gaining insights into why they seek solace from overseas.

We learnt the pathways taken to come to our nation, And the support we offer to provide some salvation.

We went around to the missions to see how they help people strive, By offering housing support and food so people can thrive.

It was so insightful to go on an adventure, Down to the mental health education and resources center.

It was great to learn how Mana Ake can foster our youth, With mental health support and speaking their truth.

I learned He Waka Tapu is an amazing organisation, That can help with smears, suicide prevention and smoking cessation. They can offer so many helpful approaches, Like support groups, rongoa, and guiding health coaches.

It was great to explore Here Toitu’s vital part, supporting health with a caring heart.

Empowering dreams, a guiding chart, in employment or study offering a brand new start.

While being here some of my favorite presentations, Was when we joined Sharon for crucial and motivating conversations.

She taught us how to be more effective and respond with care, And how to ask change-provoking questions and be more aware.

We were up on a Saturday morning to go to affirm, Assessing the community and helping them learn. We gave their blood pressure and sugars a check, And sent them to the 24 hours if there is something concerning, we suspect.

Something else helpful I learnt which is free, Tautoko Hauora can help connect people with a GP.

I spent a day out seeing patients with the acute demand team, We checked in, assessed and helped

build self-esteem.

The mental health team unveiled their diverse roles, Dedicated to uplifting mental well-being as their cherished goals.

I have seen the Whanau Ora team look after the community, And I spent time with the nurses and learned more about immunity.

Thank you, Di Bos, for showing me primary care, It has ignited my passion, my spark, and my flare.

In nursing’s journey, equity is the guide, A moral imperative, not to set aside.

Race, status, factors social and bold, Quality care is the aim, and outcomes to uphold.

A spotlight on disparities, nowhere to hide, We ensure access for all, side by side.

If we all stand strong, and in fairness we invest, We’ll have a system more inclusive, at its very best.

We had always talked about equity throughout our degree, But actions speak louder than words you see.

I’ll advocate for justice, let fairness flow, I’ll challenge biases and let empathy grow.

I’ll tailor care uniquely, let understanding show,

In this inclusive practice, I’ll let compassion glow.

Equity in healthcare is crucial and fair, Ensures all receive what they need, with compassion and care.

Nursing, education, and care has always been my passion, I hope to change the world and do in good fashion.

I aim to be a leader, develop, and grow, And in the future, my hard work will show.

Throughout Pegasus the Manaakitanga is strong, It is something I have witnessed all along.

The values inclusive/strive/connection and integrity, Are something that deeply resonates with me.

I have a similar purpose that helps me to strive, That all people living in Canterbury lead healthy lives.

I apologise if I have missed anyone in my speech,

And I would like to thank you for what you did teach.

The only feedback I could think to suggest,

In our free time, more worksheets, modules, or activities to digest.

It would be awesome to have a list of supports and services, So, we can provide extra help for patients when we become nurses.

Overall, we learned how Pegasus works as an organisation, To help change outcomes for the tangata whaiora of our nation.

You work in partnership with services to promote equitable results, To better the lives of our children and adults.

I have learned so much here at Pegasus Health, And added it all to my educational basket of wealth.

We have shared lots of kai and experiences and smiles, I know being here will help take us miles.

Thank you again to all of the staff, For aiding our careers on this wonderful path.

I will never forget this student internship over the summer, It went over so fast it’s kind of a bummer.

I’d like to acknowledge my friends who I have seen thrive and grow, You’ve all done so well, and I’ll miss you when you go.

No reira, Tēnā koutou, Tēnā koutou, Tēnā koutou katoa, Thank you everyone at Pegasus for opening this door.

We want your feedback

If you have feedback on this issue or would like to share a suggestion for a story in our next issue please contact communication@pegasus.health.nz .

Tōtara Pegasus Health Pānui is produced by the Communications Team at Pegasus Health. Content within Tōtara Pegasus Health Pānui has been included with the approval of content providers.

If you wish to reproduce or alter and transmit any of the information or images contained within, please contact communication@pegasus.org.nz

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