“We have a unique situation where Capital & Coast and Hutt Valley DHBs both have interim chief executives in place,” said CCDHB and HVDHB Board chair Andrew Blair.
“We believe we have an obligation to consider the pros and cons of combining the roles. The DHBs already share some services, and this provides an opportunity to explore whether a single position could simplify how each DHB works individually and with each other.”
Neither board has a firm view on the option and is seeking independent advice to better understand the benefits and risks of a single chief executive position. Whatever final decision is made, the DHBs would retain separate Boards.
Leading the process will be Ernst & Young’s Stephen McKernan, who acted as Director-General of Health until Dr Ashley Bloomfield’s appointment earlier this month. Mr McKernan has a comprehensive understanding of the health system, is well-placed to support this process, and will present a report to the DHBs’ Boards within the next six weeks.
Both Boards will consider the report’s recommendations before making any final decision.
“We believe we have an obligation to explore this option, but will only adopt it if there are clear benefits for combining the role,” said Mr Blair.
“The Boards are grateful to interim Chief Executives Julie Patterson (CCDHB) and Dale Oliff (HVDHB) who are continuing to provide strong leadership across the DHBs. It is important that we take the time to consider this and make sure we’re taking the best course of action in the interests of each DHB, and the wider health and wellbeing of everyone in the region.”
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