Budget fails rural health – Davidson
While healthcare itself got a $5.5 billion investment in Budget 2025, rural doctors are sounding the alarm about growing health inequities in rural New Zealand.
Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network chief executive Dr Grant Davidson says the annual conference is the most important conference for rural health professionals.
"It provides an opportunity to connect with peers, share learnings and insights, have deep and broad conversations and be involved in long-term strategy discussions that will drive change within our health system."
Happening over three days the programme includes the Minister of Health's opening address. There will be more than 70 presentations ranging from dynamic lightning talks to immersive workshops. Each year the political panel is a conference highlight.
Former Health Minister Andrew Little will open dialogue on the pressing issue of future funding and business models for robust rural health services. In 2022, Little enraged the sector by stating "Part of the problem with rural health services is that there are old-fashioned business models that don't work anymore."
The conference will offer practical insights and applicable solutions that attendees can take back to their communities. Day One of the conference is dedicated to professional development opportunities such as PRIME, the Division of Rural Hospital Medicine Registrars' Day and Rural Health and Research workshops.
Days two and three are packed with opportunities to hear about all aspects of medicine from maternity and midwifery. As well as the understanding of rural specific illnesses, preparing and thriving in a climate of constant change, building resilient rural communities, and looking to the future. This will include what the role of technology will play in creating healthy and thriving rural communities.
Conference MC and keynote speaker, Jehan Casinader, brings his personal and professional touch to the event. An award-winning journalist, speaker and mental health advocate, he was named "Broadcast Reporter of the Year" at the Voyager Media Awards in 2020 and "Reporter of the Year" at the New Zealand Television Awards in 2018.
Alongside his journalism work, he will speak about the transformative power of storytelling - in the areas of well-being, leadership, and diversity. He's passionate about health and well-being in rural communities.
Along with Jehan and other keynote speakers, conference attendees will be able to connect with a raft of medical services providers showcasing services and products in the Exhibition Hall.
"There is always a great buzz at our rural conference. It is a rare occurrence that rural health professionals and rural community representatives can get together, so they really make the most of it," says Davidson.
Sign Up!
Registration for the annual National Rural Health Conference, being held at Tākina: Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre on April 5-6 is now available. Get in before February 29 for the early bird price.
