Pandemic Response

Policy

In a pandemic, the Manatū Hauora | Ministry of Health coordinates the national response. We work with Te Whatu Ora | Health NZ and Waitaha Primary Health to respond at a local level.

See Ministry of Health: New Zealand Influenza Pandemic Plan: A framework for action and Ministry of Health: Pandemic Influenza Guidance for the Health Sector for more guidance.

We have developed a pandemic response plan, as required in:

• NZS 8134:2021 Ngā paerewa Health and disability services standard.

The plan outlines the key elements of our response to an outbreak. We also follow operational or clinical guidelines from Te Whatu Ora and Waitaha Primary Health.

We implement procedures to:

• limit the numbers of patients at the practice via telephone triage and telehealth consultations
• direct the flow of patients via red and green streams to limit cross-infection
• promote patient self-care and protective measures
• provide infection control measures such as PPE, hand gel, and information signage stay informed with the most up-to-date information and treatment
• participate in vaccination programmes, if available
• gather data and report to health care authorities, if required.

Pandemic response documents

The Pandemic Plan must include all requirements from the RNZCGP Foundation standard.

Pandemic Plan