Federation welcomes two consumer representatives onto its board

The Board of the Federation of Primary Health Aotearoa New Zealand (the Federation) welcomes two Consumer Representatives, Ms Sheldon Ngatai and Mr Philip Chapman onto its Board. Their first Board meeting was on Tuesday 26 February in 2019.

Hon. Steve Chadwick, independent Chair of the Federation, stated “Consumer representation is vital and ensures that patients have a strong voice in the delivery of primary health service.”

“Both Sheldon and Philip bring a wealth of experience in governance and in consumer representation and advocacy in the health sector. They will be a significant asset to the Board.”

Sheldon Ngatai is based in New Plymouth. Sheldon is of Te Atiawa, Taranaki, Ngati Mutunga o whare kauri, Ngati Maniapoto descent. Sheldon has experience of the health sector as a consumer and has turned that to good use by becoming involved in myriad consumer panels, co-design and planning committees.

Philip Chapman is based in Nelson. Philip is a health advocate with a very impressive range of experience working with disadvantaged groups including family violence networks, survivors of sexual abuse, salvation army and marae based support services.

The Hon. Steve Chadwick continued on to say “The Federation’s Board is committed to ensuring a consumer focus is applied to primary health policy and provision. People are at the heart of our vision: Healthy Aotearoa. Great Primary Health Care.”

The Federation’s next major event is on 20 March where it will be holding a Strategy Day for its members. The Minister of Health will also be attending.