Horowhenua StarTe Whatu Ora and Muaūpoko Tribal Authority have collaborated to ensure a range of essential health services are available to Hokio Beach residents.
Recognising the need for accessible healthcare, monthly Hauora Māori health services are being provided at Hokio Beach on the last Wednesday of every month.
Kaikōkiri hauora Māori Tracey White and kaiwhakatakiwā Josephine Biddle.
Photo Paul Williams
Kaikōkiri hauora Māori Tracey White says the decision to bring hauora Māori services to Hokio Beach was driven by requests from kaumātua and residents.
Hokio Beach has an estimated population of 190 residents, with 41 percent identifying as Māori. Geographical isolation, distrust in healthcare services, financial barriers, and difficulties enrolling in GP practices had been identified as barriers to healthcare.
Tracey says a range of services available are free and open to everyone, ensuring that all residents have access to essential health services in their own community.
“Anyone interested is welcome to join our team and participate in this kaupapa,” she says. “Kai is also provided and pickup service across Horowhenua are available on request.”
The service is widely advertised through various channels, including social media, the Horowhenua Takiwa Project, Muaūpoko Tribal Authority Facebook, Hokio residents’ groups, and other Māori health providers across Midcentral Health NZ.
If the weather is wet, the clinic moves to 290a Oxford Street, Levin, with transportation offered for all residents wanting to attend.
The services provided include:
• Public health registered nurse, for blood pressure testing, blood glucose testing, immunisations for all ages, and nutritional advice through Eat Good.
• Breast and bowel screening, promoting early detection and prevention.
• Opal (older people’s acute assessment), supporting older residents with acute health needs.
• Kaiwhakapuaki Waiora (acute mental health navigator), which is providing mental health support, and rongoā Māori access BARS therapies.
• Kaihāpai hauora (cancer coordinator). supporting whānau affected by cancer.
• Kaiawhina virtual doctor appointments, offering digital healthcare consultations.
• Kaitūhono hapori (community connector), helping residents to access social services and support.
• Kaikutekute makawe (barber), providing haircuts as a koha (donation) service for residents.
OTHER STORIES
... loading ...
