The publicly funded health system always has some limits on what can be provided, so it is important to make sure that care is provided as quickly and efficiently as possible to those in the greatest need.  Some conditions may have a lower priority for treatment in the public system, while the priority for treatment for other problems will depend on an assessment of the pain and disability which the condition is causing.

 

Waitematā DHB tries to make sure that GPs have the information they need to make the best use of specialised care available in the hospital for their patients.  When your GP makes a referral to Waitematā DHB for treatment or advice, they will be prompted to provide information which helps the hospital specialist assess the severity and urgency of the problem.  Sometimes it will be possible to provide support for your GP to manage your problem without the need to travel to a hospital clinic.  Sometimes your problem may change and your GP can have your priority for treatment reviewed.

 

Waitematā DHB is working with its GP advisors and colleagues in primary care to continually improve the relationship and understanding between the sectors, recognising that this is a vital requirement of an efficient and effective health system to serve us into the future.