CM Health will continue to provide community the right care, at the right place, at the right time

People needing emergency medical care in the eastern part of Counties Manukau will continue to get the care they need, when they need it.

Dr Vanessa Thornton, Clinical Director of Middlemore Hospital’s Emergency Department, says that since 2017/18 CM Health has doubled its investment in afterhours care.

“This consists of funding eight afterhours clinics in the region, four of which are funded until 11pm, including East Care in Botany,” says Dr Thornton.

“This funding enables these clinics to provide free or low-cost care for children under 14 years old, adults over 65, and Community Service Card or High User Health Card holders.”

Dr Thornton says that while Counties Manukau Health (CM Health) was disappointed to hear of the cessation of East Care’s overnight service in Botany, the decision will not impact Middlemore’s ability to provide services for patients who require emergency care.

“Those who need emergency medical care after 11pm should either ring for an ambulance or come to the Emergency Department at Middlemore Hospital.

“Even at our busiest, ED staff will ensure anyone presenting at the hospital gets the right care as soon as possible.

“Our message remains consistent – we need the community to seek the right care for their condition early. That means calling or visiting your local doctor, seeking medical help at afterhours services earlier in the evening, or contacting Healthline on 0800 611 116.”

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